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Thomas triple-handed in Cheltenham quest

3 minute read

Welsh-based trainer Sam Thomas is set to have three entries in the Paddy Power Gold Cup, run at Cheltenham’s November Meeting.

SAM THOMAS.
 SAM THOMAS. Picture: Pat Healy Photography

The Paddy Power Gold Cup is the feature race on the Saturday of the three-day fixture, held on the 17th, 18th and 19th of November. Previously won by handicap stalwarts such as Coole Cody, Happy Diva and Splash of Ginge, the contest has attracted 34 entries for this year's renewal including three prospects from the Sam Thomas yard – Al Dancer, Angels Breath and Stolen Silver.

Both Al Dancer and Stolen Silver have already secured a victory in the early part of the season, whilst Angels Breath is yet to make his reappearance.

"The plan for Al Dancer is that he is obviously in the Old Roan Chase at Aintree and I'm not sure from there," said Thomas.

"He seems back to his very best so warranted an entry in the Paddy Power. It's his optimum distance and to be honest, he's not a definite but he's in the form of his life. He might take his chance in the Old Roan and we'll see this week and when he's fresh and well, we might as well strike while the iron is hot.

"As far as Angels Breath goes, I've been dying to run over fences, but I've just entered him for Cheltenham this Friday over hurdles.

"Providing that went well, his options are open and fingers crossed if he won first time out, the Paddy Power would be the obvious place to go.

"Stolen Silver won very well over three miles at Chepstow and while his main target is the Coral Gold Cup, I've stuck him in this race as well.

"If they got heavy ground at Cheltenham or it went absolutely bottomless, it would be an option."

Al Dancer and Stolen Silver are currently 20/1 shots with the race sponsor Paddy Power, whilst Angels Breath is available at 25/1.


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