Cheltenham day 1

Not as much rain as forecast but the official word is good to soft (soft in places).

The trainers will have mixed feelings but the formlines with the exception of a few (notably Harchibald) shouldn't be affected too badly.

A great day's racing in prospect and here are some tentative pointers for perusal.

1.30 Torpichen is the choice with Red Moloney the obvious danger and Kangaroo court representing good each way value.

2.05 Difficult race to forecast however the selection is Forpadydeplasterer to boost Irish mood with Follow the plan an excellent each way choice.

2.40 Patsy Hall sounds great but realistically has no chance. I cannot separate Millenium Royal and Possol so you can toss a coin for this one.

3.20 Champion hurdle feature race of the day. No value in backing binocular and if the ground is against him this is wide open. Celestial Halo, Whiteoak and Muirhead will all be in the shake up with Osana (2nd last year) representing the each way bet of the day.

4.00 L'ami to pip Garde Champetre.

4.40 Cracking race to finish and my nap of the day is Quevega for the Irish but I expect United to push him all the way. Big dangers are the progressive Carole's legacy and the beautifully named Chomba Womba.

It will be interesting to read all the stories tomorrow as greatness awaits for some while the enjoyment and fun will be there in abundance for the rest of us. I will catch a whiff of the atmosphere based on memories and visualisation from the tranquil setting of the mighty Gray's Mill.

Enjoy