Pertemps Final – Cheltenham 2017 Day Three Tips

Davy Russell has an incredible record at the Cheltenham Festival, so good that you would nearly be shocked if he was to leave the Cotswolds without notching up at least one winner next week.

A Cheltenham Favourite

There is probably no freelance jockey with a better book of rides than the Cork native

and although he may have come out and said that Presenting Percy’s chances have been knocked by the handicapper, Russell, trainer Pat Kelly, and owner Philip Reynolds may still be celebrating after the Pertemps for a second year in a row.

There’s no doubt that Presenting Percy isn’t as well handicapped as Mall Dini was when he won this race last year, however, Percy may prove to be a more talented horse who is still a bit away from reaching his handicap ceiling.

With 11st10lbs it’s going to be tough for him. But it’s not like he’ll be giving two stone away to horses, this will be a relatively compressed handicap with little more than a stone from top to bottom.

Percy Prep
To make sure he was going to make the cut for this race, connections brought Presenting Percy to Fairyhouse before the weights were revealed and there will be few easier three-length winners of a handicap in Ireland this year.

The hike that resulted not only made sure the horse got into the race, but it has now got him at the top of the handicap. But that’s a burden I think he can carry, and it would be a terrific story for Pat Kelly if he can win this race two years in a row.

I think Gordon Elliott has a massive team of horses who could be quite well in for the handicap races and Glenloe caught the eye at Punchestown, while the winner that day, Isleofhopendreams warrants respect.

Recommended Bet:
Presenting Percy (9/1)

*Prices correct at time of publication