The Cotswold Chase: A Test of Stamina
As the Cotswold Chase approaches, jockey Charlie Deutsch is optimistic about the prospects of L’Homme Presse. Last year, the horse finished fourth, but Deutsch believes a repeat performance could just see him in the running for the prestigious Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. The stakes are high in this blue riband event, which is critical for the David Power Jockeys’ Cup race. Valuable points are up for grabs, and Deutsch is keen to improve upon his current ranking of seventh.
Battle of the Competitors
Last time out, L’Homme Presse faced a tough challenge against Stage Star during the January encounter at Cheltenham. Despite the hardship, connections are hopeful that the horse will shine in the Cotswold Chase, which is expected to offer a more authentic test of stamina. After a less-than-stellar performance in the two-mile-five-furlong Betfair Ascot Chase, it’s clear that L’Homme Presse thrives on more demanding courses. His impressive form record at Prestbury Park, including a festival win at the Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase, only adds to the excitement.
Looking Ahead: Prospects in the Cheltenham Festival
On a recent episode of Sporting Life’s David Power Jockeys’ Cup podcast, Deutsch acknowledged the need for L’Homme Presse to recapture his previous form: “Realistically, he needs to be in the form he was in the Cotswold, but he could easily run into second which we’d be delighted with.” In addition, Deutsch hinted at other notable mounts at the Cheltenham Festival, including Martator, who has been in fine form, and Gemirande, a December Gold Cup winner. With the horses’ strengths varying with ground conditions, Deutsch remains optimistic: “We’ll have to see what it’s like on the day, really, for him to be at an advantage.”
