RACING anorak Graeme Johnston (@GraemeJ_83) analyses the field for the third race of Day 3 of the Cheltenham Festival, the Ryanair Chase.
Ryanair Chase | Thursday 14th March 2019, 14:50 | ITV1
The Ryanair Chase over two miles and five furlongs divides opinion amongst racing fans as it dilutes other races, but I’m of the opinion it’s a great race that suits a lot of horses. This year’s race is very decent but there is one I’ve got my eye on in particular.
If you had told me this time last year Footpad will go off at 4/1 (Ladbrokes) for the Ryanair I would have bitten your hand off for it. He was the top novice chaser stepping into a division that is winnable, but he’s yet to get his head in front this campaign. The stable is going well, he’ll appreciate the conditions, but I’m not sure if I can back him just now.
Frodon (13/2 Bet365) is a very popular chaser and comes here with a real chance. He loves the track, jumps well and battles, however he was well beaten in this race last year and he’s either going to do so again or set the race up for a classier performer.
I really like Monalee (9/2 Ladbrokes) here. The more I look at the race the more I think it’s perfect for him. So far this season his jumping has been very impressive and this looks his ideal trip as three miles stretches him. He will follow what is likely to be a strong pace and after two festival seconds over three miles he can finally get off the mark at the meeting.
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Ryanair Chase – Monalee to win (9/2 Ladbrokes)
