Mon Parrain set for baptism of fire on day two at Cheltenham

Day two of the open meeting at Cheltenham means it is Paddy Power Gold Cup day, but there are four televised races in total and there seems plenty of each-way value for punters to get their teeth into.

Cheltenham 13:55 – Galaxy Rock @ 5/1

The booking of Tony McCoy is a particularly interesting one on board Galaxy Rock as the jockey has triumphed on his last three chase starts aboard the horse.

Galaxy Rock has previously won over further so the trip presents no problem, while a recent preparation run over hurdles should have helped shake off any summer rustiness.

Cheltenham 14:35 – Noble Alan @ 20/1

Mon Parrain looks a serious horse for the future, but the terrible record of five-year-old runners in the Paddy Power Gold Cup makes him one to oppose, especially at the prices.

Meanwhile, with the race likely to be a rugged affair run at a fierce gallop, the fact he looked one–paced in a similar contest at Aintree last time looks worrying

The Giant Bolster and Noble Alan have both had their jumping issues in the past, but are clearly talented.

With a good round of jumping they could both represent solid each-way value, but preference is for Noble Alan, who may be able to pick them off rounding the final bend at Cheltenham.

Cheltenham 15:10 – Cantlow @ 7/1

Cantlow appears to have plenty of improvement left in him, will relish a test over 3m and can come on markedly for his recent run at Wetherby.

Many of the other runners in the field look outclassed and if Cantlow’s jumping holds up in the closing stages he will be tough to beat.

15:40 Cheltenham: All The Winds @ 10/1

Lightly raced in comparison to the majority of the field and makes his handicap debut after a promising performance at Ascot, chasing home the useful Court In Session.

Again the booking of McCoy could be crucial and he certainly represents each-way value in an open race.