Only a Braveman would bet against Champs in Gold Cup

WILLIE MULLINs-trained Galopin Des Champs heads the 13 runners for tomorrow’s Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. paul Townend’s winner of last month’s Irish Gold Cup is joined by stablemate and Irish Gold Cup runner-up stattler, the mount of the trainer’s son patrick. Henry de Bromhead runs 2022 Gold Cup winner A plus Tard (Rachael Blackmore) and 2021 winner Minella Indo, who will be ridden for the first time by Mark Walsh. Trainer shark Hanlon has declared his American National winner Hewick but with further rain forecast there is doubt over the fast-ground lover’s participation — a decision will be made tomorrow morning. The home defence is led by paul Nichollstrained King George VI Chase winner Bravemansgame. Meanwhile, Mullins is responsible for seven of the 15 runners in tomorrow’s JCB Triumph Hurdle. stable jockey Townend has opted to ride mare Lossiemouth, who looked an unlucky loser when runner-up to stablemate Gala Marceau — who reopposes — at Leopardstown last month.