Frankie Picks A Star

Probably the most famous jockey in the world, Frankie Dettori will always be remembered for his ‘Magnificent Seven’ at Ascot in 1996. He is the retained jockey to the powerful Godolphin stable and has ridden 13 British Classics in his career.

Currently riding in Dubai, he will be returning to Britain shortly in preparation for the start of the UK flat racing season.

Here, Frankie gives his opinion on the big debate in horseracing at the moment; Kauto Star or Denman in the Cheltenham Gold Cup:

“I think Kauto Star will win because he has a good cruising speed and a very good turn of foot. I really like the horse as he is such a flashy looker.”

Frankie Dettori’s charity choice is Racing Welfare.
Racing Welfare is the only organization to provide help and support for all people who work or who have worked in the racing industry.

They deliver nationwide support through a network of welfare officers and a 24 hour helpline, as well as providing financial aid to those who suffer injury, illness or other disadvantage. Quality, affordable housing is also provided for racing’s retired or for young people who have just entered the industry.

Racing Welfare are there to help and support the often unsung heroes of the racing industry in times of need. Through their work the charity seeks to enable and enhance the lives of racing’s entire workforce and to benefit the British racing industry.

www.racingwelfare.co.uk

Mr Betdaq
This year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup is one of the most eagerly awaited races in living memory and let’s just hope that both horses get there in top form. Frankie has gone for Kauto Star, the “flashy looker”, and it is difficult to argue with him. This is one of the greatest horses of all-time who has already re-written the history books by becoming the first horse to regain the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

It was a shame that Denman unseated Tony McCoy in his prep race at Newbury, as it has slightly taken the gloss off this massive contest. However, Paul Nicholls always said he’d left a lot to work on with Denman and ‘The Tank’ should be at the top of his game next Friday, just as he was when winning the Hennessy for the second time in November.

The big worry for Denman fans, though, is the likelihood of good ground which will play into the hands of Kauto Star. Kauto’s at Kempton on Boxing Day was one of the most incredible performances ever seen on a racecourse and Nicholls has found that keeping him fresh is absolutely vital.

It isn’t just a two-horse race with decent horses like Imperial Commander, Cooldine and Tricky Trickster lining up, but it would still be a big surprise if one of them finished in the first two.

Latest odds on Betdaq:
Frankie’s Celebrity Punt:
Kauto Star to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup    8/11

Cheltenham Gold Cup odds:
Kauto Star        4/5
Denman        4/1
Imperial Commander    10/1
Cooldine        11/1
Tricky Trickster        20/1
33/1 bar

Log-on to www.betdaqextra.com for a comprehensive in-running guide to all the key Cheltenham Festival races.