The Cheltenham
Gold Cup is a unique challenge. The Grade 1 National Hunt race for
horses five-years-old and upward is perhaps the most prestigious of all the
steeplechase races behind only the Grand National. It draws international
attention and last year paid out over £491,850 in purses.
As the marquee event of
the Cheltenham Festival, it presents a daunting task for its contestants. 3
miles and 2 1/2 furlongs with 22 hurdles along the way stand between the winner
and eternal steeplechase glory.
Last year, Tony McCoy
guided Synchronised to victory. Who will it be in 2013?
Eight-year-old gelding Bobs
Worth is the 3-1 favorite. He is a multiple Grade 1 winner and has had
plenty of success racing at Cheltenham. Trained by the renowned Nicky Henderson,
Bobs Worth will be ridden by Barry Geraghty.
First Lieutenant has not won since 2011, but is considered
one of the top choices based on the strength of recent races. He finished third
behind the favorite two races back and was most recently second in the Grade 1
Lexus Chase. He is trained by Mouse Morris and will be piloted by B.J. Cooper.
Captain Chris is a nine-year-old gelding that has hit
the board in 14 of 18 lifetime races and has won seven times. Among his wins
are the King George VI Chase and the Arkle Chase, named after the
famed winner of the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Richard Johnson will ride for PJ
Hobbs.