The Arkle – Cheltenham 2017 Day 1 Tips

This year’s renewal of the Arkle revolves around Altior.

Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase
What we’ve seen so far would suggest that he is going to be a powerful force in open company next season and nothing should really come close to him on Tuesday. However, punters will be looking for each-way value and there has to be something there.

With Royal Caviar (14/1) and Some Plan (20/1) priced attractively, one of those has to be your each-way pick.

The two Irish horses are both nine-year-olds and you have to delve back almost 30 years to find a nine-year-old that won the Arkle at Cheltenham, but this is not a win prospect because of Altior’s superiority.

Royal Caviar looked to have Some Plan covered when he exited in the Irish Arkle, leaving Some Plan to come home alone. But the each-way selection has had three runs, including at Cheltenham, when he fell holding every chance. In his two efforts since he looks to have matured and can run a big race.

The Oppostition
Yorkhill remains in the race and this is the horse everyone would love to see take on Altior but that looks very unlikely to happen and therefore the odds-on favourite shouldn’t have any issues here and what a thrill that will be for Nico de Boinville.

Charbel, still only a six-year-old, is the current second favourite and although no match for Altior last time, he did pressure him more than any other horse has been capable of in recent times.

It’s easy to see why punters would want to trust Kim Bailey’s charge as an each-way bet, but Some Plan is twice his price and for me makes plenty of appeal to make the frame.

Recommended Bet:
Some Plan EW (20/1) – Arkle, 2.10 Tuesday

*Prices correct at time of publication.