Racing: Boraceva to bloom

LIKE a schoolboys' reunion, Cheltenham today will provide a warm reminder of days past as Seagram, Multum In Parvo and Envopak Token contest the stayers' handicap chase, writes Richard Edmondson.

While they may be past their best, these horses have amassed a Grand National, a Mackeson and a Sun Alliance Chase between them, and will go into retirement bearing at least one major achievement. Boraceva, who has been around for as long as these rivals and is blessed with a fair degree of ability, is in danger of being remembered as a wasted talent.

Toby Balding's gelding has not produced the results, but there have been signs this year of greater resolve. If he can maintain his stiff upper lip, Boraceva (next best 3.05) should win today.

PETTY BRIDGE (nap 3.40) has been competing over fences for his last two outings and should now appreciate a return to hurdles, while the first televised race brings together two talented ex- Irish pointers. Askinfarney won four times from seven outings, but that record pales against the unbeaten, four-race run of Travelling Wrong (2.30).