Juliette's Weekly Frolic
When he is not reviewing thrillers for The Spectator John Welcome's literary activities revolve round the turf and with a faultless sense of timing Pelhams, the publishers, have put out his updated history of The Cheltenham Gold Cup (£2.75) on the eve of this year's race. Ever since its inception in 1924, each season has seen a new candidate for stardom, but whether through circumstances beyond their control or because, when it comes to the ultimate test they are not quite good enough, precious few live up to their glowing "press."
Thanks to eleven increasingly impressive victories, 1973's No. 1 heart-throb, Pendil, has survived in the precarious role of Pretender-in-Chief, far longer than most and after next Thursday's 45th renewal of the Gold Cup, we should have a clear idea whether one day Mr Welcome (in print) and Cheltenham executive (in stone) will see fit to honour him alongside his illustrious predecessor. The undefeated are rare birds and only the callous would wish defeat on Pendil, however such scruples no longer apply where stable companion Bula is concerned as he bids for a third Champion Hurdle on Wednesday. It's true his armour has only been pierced on three occasions, but none know where to aim the arrows better than old rival and one-time con
queror Canasta Lad. Peter Bailey's near-black gelding survived the dubious distinction of being a Spectator " horse-tofollow " remarkably well, only to fall victim to the cough. On paper he has l lengths to make up on Bula for his defeat here in December, but now fully recovered, and less likely to have to make his own running, I can think of far more foolish ways of squandering money.
Nearer at hand the transfer of Sandown's Grand Military Meeting to Kempton, should see a marked alteration in the make-up of the usual Sunbury crowd. Civilian punters are advised to steer clear of the amateur contests and concentrate their powers of perception on the Imperial Cup. An unpredictable handicap, at the best of times, nothing would induce me to support Mon Plaisir, who failed to deal with Dark Sultan off a similar mark (10.13) a fortnight ago. Irishman Hardboy is not overburdened but I prefer the proven courage of French Legend. He was quick to take advantage of Reignon's last fence mistake when overhauling that horse on "Great Yorkshire" day and as the victim has since won with 131b more, an extra 81b should not prove too great a handicap for his conqueror. Assets: £83.08. (five to follow assets £12.52). Outlay: £2 ew Canasta Lad, French Legend.
Previous page
