Tom Scudamore: “I’m sure this has been the plan for Royal Village – I certainly hope so!”

Coral ambassador previews his Cheltenham Day Three rides

Cheltenham 13.30 – Poker Play

Poker Play isthe outsider here, and that’s realistic based on his last two runs, althoughhis first run of the season, when he won at Ffos Las, has worked out OK. 

However, I’m obviously not saying that gives him the form towin this, but the ground here should suit, and a return to his best couldeasily see him outrun his admittedly big odds.

Cheltenham 14.10 – Kansas City Chief

Kansas CityChief was unlucky last time out at Doncaster, when he ran out approaching thelast, and the time before he was only beaten a head by Phoenix Way, a horsequietly fancied for this race although he was not declared for it in theend. 

He’s been running to a decent level of form this season,which does mean he’s more exposed than some of these, but on the flip side,he’s straightforward, we know all about him, and at decent odds he should giveme some fun here.

Cheltenham 16.10 – Royal Village

Royal Villagewas in great form last summer, and comes here off a break, having avoided thedeep winter ground. 

He would ideally want better ground still, but his trainerIan Williams knows how to train Festival winners, and I’m sure this has beenthe plan for some time, I certainly hope it has been!