Paul Kealy's play of the day at Cheltenham

Calico

2.25 Cheltenham

If he's fit and ready to roll it's easy to argue he's the best-handicapped horse in the race.

He did lose his form in the second half of last term, but he has been second first time out at Cheltenham for the last two seasons, and he possibly would have won at the Paddy Power meeting last year if he hadn't pressed on a little too early.

It was only Triple Trade who managed to catch him on that occasion for a three-quarter-length win, and there's a 6lb turnaround in Calico's favour this time. 

All his best form is on good to soft or quicker, so it makes sense to have him spot on at this stage of the season, and if he can return to last season's best he is the one to beat, despite what the prices may say.

Calico14:25 Cheltenham

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Jky: Harry Skelton Tnr: Dan Skelton

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