Cheltenham Christmas Meeting: Day Two Placepot Tips with Templegate
The second day of Cheltenham’s Christmas Meeting promises a thrilling display of top-class racing. Renowned tipster Templegate offers his expert Placepot selections for the day’s card, with a substantial £150,000 guaranteed prize pool up for grabs. The Placepot, a popular bet type, involves selecting a placed horse in each of the first six races. The cost of the bet depends on the number of selections in each race and the chosen stake per line. For instance, selecting two horses in each of the first six races at a 10p stake would cost £3.20. As long as at least one horse in each race finishes placed, a payout is awarded. New Tote customers can also benefit from a £40 bonus by staking £10.
Leg 1: Mare Power and Irish Hope
In the opening race, Templegate favors Ambiente Amigo and Total Look. Ambiente Amigo, despite a slightly erratic performance in her last outing, has shown promise and is expected to settle better under Harry Cobden’s guidance. This mare, displaying prior flat racing form, secured a convincing hurdles debut victory. Total Look, trained by the Cheltenham-proficient Gavin Cromwell, presents a strong challenge following a recent win at Navan and boasts a solid hurdling pedigree.
Leg 2: Course Specialist and Promising Chaser
For the second leg, Templegate picks Transmission and Peaky Boy. Transmission impressed with a course and distance victory in his previous race, showcasing his suitability for Cheltenham’s track. A modest 3lb rise in the handicap suggests further improvement is likely. Peaky Boy, a winner on his chasing debut at Cheltenham, is expected to relish the extended trip. His strong jumping ability and potential for progression make him a contender worth considering.
Leg 3: Chasing Potential and Cheltenham Affinity
Templegate’s selections for the third leg are Coco Mademoiselle and Malaita. Coco Mademoiselle, showing promise over hurdles, appears well-suited to chasing and nearly triumphed in her fencing debut. The slight reduction in distance could prove advantageous. Malaita, a previous Cheltenham winner, maintains a solid record at the course and offers good value for a placed finish.
Leg 4: Paddy Power Eye-Catcher and Consistent Performer
In the fourth leg, Madara and Grandeur D’Ame are Templegate’s chosen horses. Madara caught the eye with a strong finish in the Paddy Power Gold Cup, suggesting a liking for the challenging hill. With Harry Skelton taking the reins and a more favorable weight allowance, a stronger performance is anticipated. Grandeur D’Ame, demonstrating a return to form with a recent win, placed fourth in this race last year and has the potential to replicate or improve upon that performance.
Leg 5: Consistent Winner and Unexposed Stamina
For the fifth leg, Templegate opts for Skyjack Hijack, a horse on an impressive winning streak. His effortless hurdling style and front-running tactics have proven effective, and while facing a tougher test, his consistent form and stamina suggest he’s capable of competing at this level.
Leg 6: Grade 1 Competitor and Course Winner
In the final leg, Take No Chances and Pretending are Templegate’s picks. Take No Chances, having competed respectably in the Grade 1 Fighting Fifth Hurdle, returns to handicap company where she is expected to perform well. Her proven stamina and previous near-win at Chepstow bode well. Pretending, a previous course winner, showcased strong front-running ability in her last race and could hold on for a place.
Responsible Gambling Reminder
Templegate’s tips offer valuable insights for the Cheltenham Placepot, but it’s crucial to remember the importance of responsible gambling. Set a budget, stick to it, and never chase losses. Organizations like GamCare and Gamble Aware provide support for those struggling with gambling-related issues. Gambling should be enjoyable and within one’s means.
