The Cheltenham Festival is at its midpoint, and early successes for tipsters have brought a welcome sense of relief. Victories from Johnnywho in the Ultima Handicap Chase on the opening day and Il Etait Temps in Wednesday’s Champion Chase have proven profitable for those following expert advice. Navigating these major meetings requires a keen eye, as variance can easily lead to a losing week, even for experienced horse racing analysts.
That said, hitting on early winners at significant odds, as seen with those two races, provides a palpable boost. Now, attention turns to Thursday’s card, where Kevin Blake has pinpointed a compelling contender in the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle – Lavida Adiva, currently available at odds of 20/1 or greater.
Thursday’s Cheltenham Races: Key Selections
Blake’s analysis focuses on three races on Thursday’s card, offering selections with varying odds. His insights highlight potential value beyond the frontrunners, emphasizing the importance of identifying horses suited to the specific race conditions.
Stayers’ Hurdle (3:20) – Impose Toi (10/1)
The Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle is shaping up to be a competitive race, but Blake believes the horses at double-figure prices offer the most appeal. While tempted by Home By The Lee, he’s siding with the Nicky Henderson-trained Impose Toi. The eight-year-old recently suffered a defeat in the Cleeve Hurdle at Cheltenham, but Blake considers this forgivable. Impose Toi, known for his enthusiastic travelling style, struggled with a very steady pace in the Cleeve Hurdle, hindering his ability to execute his usual tactics.
Blake anticipates a larger field in the Stayers’ Hurdle will create a more favorable pace scenario, allowing jockey Nico De Boinville to employ the patient approach that has served Impose Toi well throughout the season. He expects Impose Toi to arrive late in the race, maximizing his chances of securing a place and potentially challenging for victory.
Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle (4:40) – Lavida Adiva (20/1+)
The Pertemps Network Final is a fascinating handicap, and Blake identified Lavida Adiva as a potential nap selection during the At The Races Cheltenham Preview night. Although her initial odds of 50/1 have diminished, Blake still sees value in backing the Ruth Jefferson-trained seven-year-old at 20/1 or higher. Lavida Adiva has demonstrated success in Listed and Grade 2 races, but Blake believes her running style is best suited to a race with more pace and cover, conditions she hasn’t consistently encountered.
In a recent qualifier for this contest, Lavida Adiva finished fourth to C’Est Different after making a bold move from the rear. Blake believes a larger field with a faster pace will allow her to be ridden more patiently, positioning her for a strong finish in the straight.
Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Chase (5:20) – Waterford Whispers (4/1)
The Kim Muir Challenge Cup, an amateur jockeys’ handicap chase, often hinges on the skill of the rider. Blake favors Waterford Whispers, trained by Henry de Bromhead and ridden by Alan O’Sullivan. The eight-year-old has been performing well this season, finishing a close third in the Leopardstown Handicap Chase at the Dublin Racing Festival.
Blake acknowledges the challenges faced by Irish-trained horses in British handicap chases due to potentially harsh handicapping, but believes Waterford Whispers is well-handicapped enough to overcome this hurdle and is ready for the step up in trip.
Kevin Blake’s Tips:
- 3:20 Cheltenham, Thursday – Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle: Impose Toi (10/1)
- 4:40 Cheltenham, Thursday – Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle: Lavida Adiva (20/1)
- 5:20 Cheltenham, Thursday – Rosconn Group Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Chase: Waterford Whispers (4/1)
As the Cheltenham Festival progresses, identifying horses suited to the specific race conditions and rider combinations will be crucial. Blake’s selections offer compelling options for punters looking beyond the favorites, particularly in the competitive handicap races.
Looking ahead, Friday’s card promises another day of thrilling action, with the Gold Cup taking center stage. Analyzing the form and assessing the impact of the ground conditions will be key to identifying potential winners in the showpiece event.
What are your thoughts on these selections? Share your own Cheltenham predictions in the comments below!
