Altior odds slashed for Gold Cup; Favourite for King George

Our traders are backing Desert Orchid Chase winner Altior to come out of the traps flying in 2019.

The Nicky Henderson-trained thoroughbred’s odds have been slashed in half to 25/1 for the prestigious Gold Cup at Cheltenham in March.

He’s now back in the running after winning both the Arkle Challenge Trophy and the Celebration Chase at Cheltenham in 2017.

The 2017 Arkle and Celebration Chase winner has been brought in following a significant bet on his next destination from a mystery punter earlier in the day.

The gelding is also 4/1 clear favourite to bag victory at the King George VI Chase in December 2019.

He leads a chasing pack of Clan Des Obeaux at 13/2 and Waiting Patiently at 7/1.

Nicola McGeady of Ladbrokes said: “Based on the disappointing performances we’ve seen over Christmas, Altior looks the one who can really step up next year so we’ve made him clear favourite for next year’s King George.

There has also been a big bet for Altior winning the Gold Cup. It’s a weak looking race and obviously someone out there is willing to roll the dice.”

Ladbrokes Latest Betting

Gold Cup 2019

Presenting Percy – 7/2

Native River – 5/1

Kemboy – 6/1

Clan Des Obeaux – 7/1

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King George

Altior – 4/1

Clan Des Obeaux – 13/2

Waiting Patiently – 7/1

Santini – 12/1

Might Bite – 12/1

Kemboy – 14/1

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All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing