When's the flat season begin!! ?

 Money down the drain

Another losing day for me at Cheltenham - it's been pretty tough going on the bank! I hope Big Buck's and Poquelin can do the business on Paddy's Day as they are my biggest bets thus far.

At least it was a good day for the Irish but I can help longing a little for the flat, as I find it much better for punting. I'm probably only saying that because I'm losing though and a good day tomorrow will have me loving Cheltenham again. Here's my Irish Independent race guide for Thursday...

RACE-BY-RACE GUIDE

1.30

The Jewson Novices’ Chase is new race for the festival and is not to be confused with the old Jewson Novices' Handicap Chase. Wishful Thinking is a useful sort that is on the up; and his previous course experience should prove useful. 

2.05

A horrible race for backers where the favourite rarely performs. Unless you are into laying favourites on the exchanges, this contest should be avoided.

2.40
It’s hard to get away from Paul Nicholls’ Poquelin. He found plenty when it mattered in the Vote A. P. Gold Cup at this course in December and looks the one to beat.

3.20

Will this end up as a match between Big Buck’s and Grands Crus? It’s a mouth-watering prospect as both horses are in cracking form and are the best in their division. It could be tight but Big Buck’s should have a couple of pounds in hand… for now!

4.0

A big field handicap, and not a race for heavy punting. Aigle D´Or may still have more to come before the handicapper catches up. 

4.40

Any market moves for Ferdy Murphy’s Galant Nuit would be interesting but if you’re in the red by this stage of the day, keep your money for tomorrow as it’s definitely not a race for chasing losses.