Grands Crus camp sets RSA Chase as Cheltenham target
After weeks of deliberations, Grands Crus’ connections have decided to go for the RSA Chase. The seven-year-old was given entries both for the RSA Chase and Betfred Cheltenham Gold Cup.
However, David Pipe on Monday confirmed that the exciting gelding will miss the Gold Cup, which is scheduled to take place two days after the RSA Chase on Wednesday. Pipe made the crucial move after consulting Grands Crus’ owners, Roger Stanley & Yvonne
Reynolds III.
"It's always a difficult decision but it's the right one for the horse," said Pipe.
He continued:
"Is he the best horse in the RSA? Yes. Is he the best horse in the Gold Cup? Possibly. Will he get the trip in the RSA? Yes. Will he get the trip in the Gold Cup? You don't know. We have got to think about his future so he goes for the RSA. I hope the ground
is going to be on the softer side."
The exciting chaser was carrying the odds of 6-1 for the Gold Cup. The bookmakers reacted quickly to the announcement and cut him for the RSA Chase. According to the present betting card, Pipe’s trainee has been shortened to 7-4 [from 2-1] by William Hill.
Last year’s Ladbrokes World Hurdle runner-up has been unbeaten since his emphatic victory in the Steel Plate And Sections Novices' Chase at Cheltenham in November 2011.
After a brilliant performance in the Class-2 event, the champion runner went on to seal a classy triumph in the GPG Novices' Chase (Registered As The Worcester Novices' Chase) at Newbury in the same month.
Grands Crus’ latest victory came over Christmas, when he displayed a thumping performance in the Grade 1 williamhill.com Feltham Novices' Chase at Kempton.
With three back to back wins under his belt, the talented sprinter is all set to make an impact in the Cheltenham festival. After weeks of anticipation, the extravaganza starts on Tuesday, March 13, 2011.
The opening day of the festival is scheduled to host many important races, such as William Hill Supreme Novices´ Hurdle, Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase and Stan James Champion Hurdle Challenge Trophy.
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