Jonjo’ll come out swinging in Perth clash

Jonjo O’Neill has his eyes set on another City Of Perth Gold Cup, 16 years after he landed the race with Water Font.

Today’s big handicap chase has attracted a quality field of 12 including Jackdaws Castle raider Upswing who has won his last two starts at Ffos Las and Cheltenham.

No one trains a staying chaser better than O’Neill and he said: “He travelled and jumped well at Ffos Las but the good ground is the real key to him as he tends to struggle if it gets too soft.

“In the main his jumping is pretty good and he’s the type of horse to keep on the go over the rest of the spring and summer.”

Gordon Elliot has a strong contender in Rightdownthemiddle, while Ballykan has a squeak for Twister, despite a poor effort at the track last time.

Champion trainer Nicky Henderson saddles Volnay De Thaix but he has a poor record at Perth.

Tom George chucks D’Apsis and he also has Always On The Run in the Mackie’s Handicap Chase.

If I was pushed, I’d take Upswing but the best bet on the card for me is Magic Money in the 2.45.

Warren Greatrex’s gelding has won three of his last four starts and put in a career best when second at Cheltenham last time.

The Lambourn handler also has a big chance at 4.45 with The Caller, while I’d also be hoping Salto Chisco can oblige at 3.15 for Harry Whittington.

To get off to a flying start, I’ll be backing Golden Jeffrey in the opener after a couple of impressive bumper wins at Ayr and Kelso.

Whatever happens on the track, you should have a good day.

This is most prestigious event in Perth’s calendar and a welcome 30 per cent increase in prize-money has taken the pot to £80,000, making it the track’s richest day of the year.

With a large crowd anticipated, do yourself a favour and get there early.

The Centre Course Enclosure will be open allowing racegoers to drive into the course and enjoy their own picnic during the racing.

Organisers recommend allowing plenty of time for gaining admission due to heightened security measures and expected large crowds.

With music, sizzling BBQs and plenty of children’s entertainment Gold Cup Day promises to be a brilliant afternoon out for the whole family. in Roc

Conjure up a profit at Scone with Greatrex’s progressive Magic Money