De Bromhead duo ready to bloom at Cheltenham

Cheltenham’s three-day November Meeting commences on Friday, with several top Jump riders set to make their mark. Jonbon is expected to return in Friday’s Grade Two Shloer Chase at 2.20pm, aiming for his third victory in the contest. However, the most intriguing betting race this weekend is the Paddy Power Gold Cup at 2.20pm. Meetmebythesea, who won the Festival in March, is expected to make his return. Priced at 3/1, he presents a strong prospect.

Zurich is another horse that could excel on the current ground. The Irish raiders typically struggle in this race, but de Bromhead could change that narrative this year. Having shown promise in the Plate at the Festival in March, where he finished fifth, he is well-prepared for this challenge. De Bromhead’s form on the course and distance is impressive, and he is now eight pounds better off than Madara.

Another contender to watch is July Flower, who has been earmarked for the Gold Cup. She won the Grade Two Arkle Trial at last year’s November Meeting, indicating strong course form. Known for winning over this trip in the past, she has the experience to handle the conditions. At 12/1, she is an attractive each-way option.

For the three-mile handicap hurdle at 2.55pm on Saturday, Gold For Alec at 6/1 seems to be the ticket. The six-year-old, ridden by Tom Symonds, has been in good form after two successful starts this season. He crashed at Chepstow but recovered well for a second-place finish last month over the same course and distance. Gold For Alec should be well worth a bet.