Dan Skelton Cheltenham Runners: ‘He’s going to take a good bit of beating’
Dan Skelton enjoyed his best Cheltenham Festival yet last year, courtesy of four winners, and he admits "the pressure is on this time" as he readies his squad for 2025.
We sent legendary broadcaster Rupert Bell to Warwickshire earlier this week to get the lowdown on Dan Skelton's Cheltenham runners.
Dan Skelton Cheltenham Runners
The New Lion (9/4 NRNB for the Turners Novices' Hurdle)
"The best thing about this horse is his mentality - the way he relaxes and allows you to train him, allows you to ride him. He understands the game.
"He's got loads of ability. He's been very, very good in his races so far. Obviously there's a different challenge completely coming up, but he's ready for it."
Odds correct at time of publishing.
L'eau Du Sud (4/1 NRNB for the Arkle Novices' Chase)
"He's been so much better over fences, I suppose it just gives him a little more time. His jumping's been good, he's four-from-four, hasn't really put a foot wrong and I've liked everything I've seen.
"He goes there ready. Majborough is very, very good of course, but I'm not in a big rush to swap ours."
Odds correct at time of publishing.
Protektorat (11/2 NRNB for the Ryanair Chase)
"He's in great form, he looks outstanding. He obviously put up a great run at Windsor, perhaps a lifetime best. I think he's going to take a good bit of beating.
"Of course, there's a new angle this year, the French horse taking on a slightly lesser trip from the King George, Fact To File maybe... I just think our horse is going to be putting up a good defence."
Odds correct at time of publishing.
Valgrand (8/1 NRNB for the County Hurdle)
"At Christmas I didn't feel like we were making massive inroads into a spring, but all of a sudden I'm getting closer to the day and starting to think it's a possibility.
"I'm not saying he'll win, but I think he'll run very well. A bit of nice ground would be necessary, though."
Odds correct at time of publishing.
Watch our full interview with Dan Skelton below, or directly on YouTube.
*You can check out all of Betfred's Cheltenham Betting Odds over on our main hub page on betfred.com
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