Racing: Strong Promise in Gold Cup gamble

STRONG PROMISE, whose Gold Cup credentials and staying ability is put to the test in the Jim Ford Chase at Wincanton today, was yesterday backed from 16-1 to 10-1 with Coral for Cheltenham. He is one of of 27 horses left in the Gold Cup at yesterday's acceptance stage. The injured Coome Hill, Danoli and Imperial Call are the most notable absentees.

Dardjini will miss the Arkle Trophy Chase at the Festival. Noel Meade has been unable to run Dardjini since his successful chasing debut at Leopardstown over Christmas.

There are 32 in the Champion Hurdle, with the novices French Holly, Grey Shot and Zaralaska left in pending a decision on their ultimate targets.

Mulligan and Jeffell are the most notable omissions in a field of 14 remaining in the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Cheltenham withdrawals

Gold Cup: Banjo, Coome Hill, Corket, Danoli, Fantus, Glitter Isle, Harwell Lad, Hermes Harvest, Imperial Call, Sparky Gayle, Unguided Missile.

Champion Hurdle: Carlito Brigante, Cockney Lad, Cool Edge, Gazalani, Indefence, Kayaara, Mr Percy, Potentate, Prince Babar, Rubhahunish, Saleel, Silver Wizard.

Queen Mother Champion Chase: Call Equiname, Jeffell, Martha's Son, Mulligan, Time Won't Wait.

Stayers' Hurdle: Christchurch, Cockney Lad, Conquering Leader, Cyborgo, Deano's Beeno, Escartefigue, Folly Road, Fujiyama Crest, House Captain, Jack Button, Large Action, Roseberry Avenue, Sanmartino, Sohrab.

RICHARD EDMONDSON

NAP: Wahiba Sands

(Wincanton 3.10)

NB: Double Oscar

(4.10 Lingfield)