SANTINI PRIMED TO STRIKE GOLD

KEN PITTERSON spends his working life on the racetrack watching horses. Here’s his verdict on the final day...

SANTINI was not fit for his seasonal debut at Sandown in November but still found a way to win. He looked on the burly side when beating Bristol De Mai three-and-a-half lengths in the Cotswold Chase on trials day at Cheltenham in January. Santini has some solid Festival form, having finished second to Topofthegame in last year’s RSA Chase, and trainer Nicky Henderson should have him at his peak for the Gold Cup. I also like PRESENTING PERCY each-way. He has had a quiet campaign and looks like he has been brought to a peak for this big day.

SOLO is my pick in the Triumph Hurdle. He had a light Flat campaign in France and looked head and shoulders above the rest on his hurdling debut at Kempton. He’s a good jumper and travels strongly.

HARRY SENIOR has made steady progress and can shine in the Albert Bartlett. I liked the way he powered up the Cheltenham hill when winning on trials day. There is every chance his trainer Colin Tizzard will eke out even more improvement from him.