Racing News
	Friday 8th March 2019

Cheltenham Insight from Harry Cobden

After weeks of uncertainty following the outbreak of equine influenza the 2019 Cheltenham Festival is finally in sight. Internet forums, pubs and newspapers are all equally full of rumours, gossip, tips and news ahead of the four-day horse racing bonanza.

Speaking exclusively to GG recently 20-year-old jockey Harry Cobden previewed his own chances and earmarked his potential rivals. Take a look below to see what Cobden had to say ahead of Cheltenham

Firstly, who is Harry Cobden?

If you haven’t heard of Harry Cobden then you’re not alone. The 20-year-old jockey isn’t a household name in horse racing just yet but he certainly has the potential to be soon. Cobden won 4 winners at Ascot and is looking for similar success at Cheltenham.

Who is Cobden riding at Cheltenham?

Cobden will be riding Clan Des Obeaux in this year’s Gold Cup and he is very excited about the horse’s potential. Cobden first rode Clan Des Obeaux at the Betfair Chase at Haydock and despite a topsy-turvy race he was impressed with the horse.

In his interview Cobden revealed that there had been slight concerns over the horse at the turn of the year. According to the young jockey Clan Des Obeaux was jumping slightly to the right but thankfully that issue seems to have been rectified ahead of the Gold Cup.

Which horse does Cobden fear at the Gold Cup?

Presenting Percy is the favourite with many bookmakers but it is actually 2018 winner Native Winner that Harry Cobden is worrying about. Speaking to GG Cobden revealed his admiration for Native River’s performance in the 2018 Gold Cup.

In front of a bumper crowd Native River romped to success after holding off the challenge of Might Bite in a hotly contested affair. The 9-year-old Chestnut Gelding is a great jumper and Cobden believes that if he beats Native River he will win the 2019 Gold Cup.

How will Cobden celebrate potential victory?
If Cobden rides Clan Des Obeaux to success in the Gold Cup he will have one hell of a celebration lined up. After romping to success 4 times at Ascot Cobden was forced to enjoy his victories with a glass of orange juice and a couple of handshakes.

He was due to race the following day at Huntingdon and as such had to head off on a 3 hour journey immediately following his victory.

Who’s our outside tip for the Gold Cup?
Willie Mullins horse Bellshill has been overlooked by the majority of tipsters for the Gold Cup, but at odds of 16/1 could offer punters great value. In the Savills Chase Bellshill ran well finishing fourth.
Trainer Willie Mullins has an excellent track record and earlier this year spoke to several media outlets about his expectations of Bellshill.

Summary

Harry Cobden’s revelation about Clan Des Obeaux’s troubles with jumping may be enough to put punters off backing his horse in the Gold Cup. If that issue is truly cleared up though there’s every chance that Harry Cobden could claim another impressive victory following his success at Ascot.