Cheltenham Festival tips: why this horse can win the 2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup

A range of industry experts give their view on a competitive Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup (3.30 Cheltenham) . . .

Peter Scudamore, eight-time champion jockey: Galvin

I like Galvin. He's consistent, he's won round here before. I don't think it's the strongest Gold Cup ever and there'll be a few in contention at the top of the hill. The question is, which of them will stay on strongest from there and I think it'll be him.

Jenny Pitman, ex-trainer: Royale Pagaille

I like the horse of Venetia's, Royale Pagaille. I was very impressed by him when he won the Peter Marsh again. He's a lovely, big horse and just at the right age now. He was a baby when he was winning all those races last season. He's eight and I always used to love an eight-year-old, they were right at their best at that age. Venetia's having a good week already, I see.

Jenny Pitman says Royale Pagaille has what it takes to give Venetia Williams a Gold CupCredit: John Grossick (racingpost.com/photos)

Cornelius Lysaght, broadcaster: Royale Pagaille

I'm a Galvin fan but in Venetia Williams we trust, especially when the heavens open. It could have almost been a signal to her fans when Noah came suddenly into view on the home straight on Wednesday. There's a school of thought Royale Pagaille doesn't like Cheltenham but there's not enough evidence for that. He's better on softer ground and I was furious because I thought about backing him after the rain but on Thursday he had shortened to 10-1.

Brendan Powell, former trainer: Galvin

I like Galvin. He won here last year, he stays and jumps well and goes on most ground. I think everything is in his favour. I thought Minella Indo ran a good race last time and will improve for that run but if I was to plump for one, it would be Galvin.

2022 Cheltenham Gold Cup: trainers on their chances of winning Friday's big race

Richard Johnson, former jockey: Galvin

People say there's not a real star in it but there are four or five that as a jockey you would struggle to choose between. If A Plus Tard shows his Haydock form he would look to be the one, but after the rain you wonder if his stamina could be an issue. For me, Galvin ticks all the boxes. I can't believe I won a maiden hurdle on him at Perth! It's amazing to think he has come so far. He won the National Hunt Chase, which these days is a really good trial for the Gold Cup, and he definitely stays. Protektorat is the interesting one for the British and he might hopefully be a surprise package.

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