Yesterday’s racing at Cheltenham was overshadowed by the serious neck injury suffered by amateur jockey JT McNamara. McNamara suffered the fall in the day’s sixth race, the Fulke Walwyn Handicap chase and was airlifted to Frenchay hospital in Bristol. McNamara was placed in an induced coma
.
Irish champion jockey Davy Russell also suffered injury yesterday, with a collapsed lung meaning he will take no further part in the festival.
Otherwise it was a good day for the Irish and the bookies, with three more Irish winners coming in a day characterised by long shot wins and little joy for the favourites. It hasn’t been a particularly prosperous festival for tipsters and today represents the last chance for many to make amends for the poor returns so far this week.
The two races to look at today are the 1.30 Triumph hurdle and, of course, the big one at 3.20, The Gold Cup.
Here’s our tips for today’s races, from Hayley O’Connor of Ladbrokes and The Donn
The Donn
Gold Cup: Sir Des Champs
Triumph Hurdle: Our Connor
Hayley O’Connor
Triumph Hurdle: Far West
Image: Big Shu ridden by Barry Cash on the way to winning the Glenfarclas Handicap Chase
©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
