Flemenstar For The Gold Cup?

The Cheltenham Gold Cup is one of the biggest and most popular events in the horse racing calendar, and although it’s a long way away, 2013’s event is already well-anticipated by riders, trainers and punters. The odds for the 2013 Gold Cup are already up on the horse racing at Ladbrokes page, and one name immediately stands out. Flemenstar, recent winner of the John Durkan Memorial Chase is now joint favourite at 4/1, but is now the right time to back him?

In short, the answer is no. With the Gold Cup months away from happening, a lot could change in the time leading up to the big event. So many new horses could do well before they enter the race, and in that time, Flemenstar could see his recent good form go, which may see his odds lengthen. The case of Bobs Worth, who won the Hennessy Gold Cup and saw his price for Cheltenham drop to the same price proves that short-term form can often distort the market.

To date, Flemenstar has yet to race outside of his native Ireland, and racing on different territory will represent a new challenge. This coupled with the fact that his most recent victory was over a short distance means that, to be in with a chance of winning in Cheltenham, he must improve dramatically if he’s to win the big prize. If you’re tempted to have a bet on Flemenstar, the best thing to do is probably wait a few months and see whether his form continues. If not, it’s best to avoid him.