Cooldine is now a best price of 14/1 with VCBet for the Cheltenham Gold Cup following his return to form in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown last Sunday. But is that price good value?

On the face of things we are struggling for a viable alternative to the power duo from the Paul Nicholls yard so last year’s RSA Chase winner would seem the each-way thieves ideal pick now he appears to have put in another top-class performance. Or is he?

Plus Points:

• Already a Cheltenham Festival winner so the course and fences hold no fears.
• Came close to winning a Grade One last time out so apparently in good form.
• Trainer Willie Mullins stated before that race that he was concerned his horse might not be 100% fit so an even better performance could be expected at Cheltenham.

Negatives:

• The RSA Chase he won last year has turned out to be a sub-standard renewal of that race.
• The Hennessy Gold Cup last Sunday was run at an absolute crawl and is no real indication of Grade One form (or fitness).
• It could be argued that his overall form is no better than Taranis or What A Friend and they can be backed at three times the price.

So, Cooldine, excellent each-way bet for the Cheltenham Gold Cup or over rated and likely to flop – let us know which side you would be on?