Stay with The Wallpark

In our ninth Cheltenham Corner antepost bet we target The Stayers Hurdle, a race dominated by the presence of Gordon Elliott’s Teahupoo.

At this stage just four weeks before the race it looks a very weak event. Teahupoo has been campaigned sparingly this season and I don’t have him down as the banker that other people do. He could win but he won’t be carrying my money anyway.

The selection comes from the Gordon Elliott yard in the form of his likely second string, The Wallpark.

This seven-year-old gelding, owned by J.P. McManus, is currently priced at 12/1 across the board in the ante-post markets.

The Wallpark showcased his staying prowess by defeating Gowel Road in a Pertemps Qualifier at Cheltenham in October, despite conceding weight to his rival. This performance not only highlighted his stamina over extended distances but also his ability to handle the undulating Cheltenham track.

The write up from the race makes good reading: Held up in rear, headway after 3 out, in touch with leaders when short of room and ridden home turn, led after last, kept on well 

I like his profile for this race, despite his defeat last time behind Crambo at Ascot where I’d say he was out for experience and fitness. The Wallpark finished his race off brilliantly there which seems to have gone unnoticed. He kept on strongly in the dying strides and I think would have won the race given another furlong.

Given the progressive profile, seemingly unlimited staying power, and the Cheltenham course form, he seems overpriced at 12/1.

He has also won numerous times on good to yielding ground, suggesting the likely conditions at Cheltenham at that time of year will be no bother.

I have had a few antepost bets on this horse. Good luck if you follow me in.

Selection: The Wallpark, Stayers Hurdle, Cheltenham Festival, 12/1.