Big rivals in line for Cheltenham Gold Cup showdown

Both star names appeared among a total of 34 entries for the blue riband event on the final day of The Festival.

Last year it looked as if Long Run had signalled a new era for steeplechasing when dethroning Kauto Star in the King George at Kempton, preventing a fifth-straight success for Paul Nicholl’s superstar in the Christmas highlight.

When Nicky Henderson’s youngster then saw him off again in the Gold Cup, along with the now-retired Denman, it appeared Long Run was the one to beat.

However, Kauto Star has already created history once by becoming the first horse to reclaim the Gold Cup and he is a general 4-1 shot to claim another place in the record books.

He saw off Long Run by eight lengths at Haydock and, while his younger rival closed the gap at Kempton on Boxing Day, Kauto Star reclaimed his King George crown. Now he is aiming to become the first 12-year-old winner of the Gold Cup since What A Myth in 1969.

Henderson has also entered long-term absentee Burton Port and, surprisingly, Finian’s Rainbow, while Nicholls could run What A Friend, who was fourth 12 months ago, Tidal Bay, Poquelin and The Minack.

David Pipe’s novice Grands Crus is regarded by some as a potential fly in the ointment for the big two. He managed to beat all bar the seemingly-unbeatable Big Buck’s over hurdles last term and has taken to fences seamlessly, with a Grade One win already under his belt.

Jonjo O’Neill’s Synchronised burst onto the Gold Cup scene when beating the best in Ireland in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown and would be a force on soft ground. Dual Ryanair winner Albertas Run has also been entered and last year’s Arkle winner Captain Chris was third in the King George and will aim to give Philip Hobbs a first win in the big race.