No Cold Feet for novice Nesbitt
The Irishman heads up the syndicate that owns the six-year-old and knows how fortunate he is to have such a good horse on his hands on his first venture into racing.
In training with Nicky Henderson, Riverside Theatre has won both his races over fences to date.
“I saw him just over a week ago and he looked very ready. We’re very happy and I’m excited,” said Nesbitt, star of television’s Cold Feet.
“He’s only run over fences twice so we don’t know how he will react to such a strong field. He did it well first time at Newbury and then won the Wayward Lad even though the ground was a bit sticky.
“I just hope he gets round okay. There’s a lot of excitement and I’ve never been as nervous in my life. I’m blessed, this is the first horse I’ve really been involved in.”
Barry Geraghty will be on board and fancies his chances. “The Arkle has as strong a field as I can remember for a long time, but I have confidence in Riverside Theatre,” he said on his blog.
“I schooled him last week and he went very well and, touch wood, he’s very accurate, which is exactly what you want.
“He’s a better horse over fences than hurdles and he’s also better for a year’s maturity and goes into the race as well as he can be.”
Of Riverside Theatre’s rivals, Somersby has been kept under wraps at home since landing the Henry VIII Novices’ Chase at Sandown three months ago. He has yet to taste defeat in two starts over fences and has pleased trainer Henrietta Knight in the build-up.
“He’s done everything right since Sandown and we haven’t got any complaints. He’s very well, so we just keep our fingers crossed,” said the Wantage trainer.
“It’s a very hot race and it will be a very good race. A clear round will count for a lot so I just hope we are lucky.”
Champion trainer Paul Nicholls runs Woolcombe Folly, winner of his last five races but only one of those has been over fences.
He was the unfortunate horse that ruled Sam Thomas out of the festival after a fall when schooling last week.
“I have had this race in mind since Doncaster, although he does lack a bit of experience,” said Nicholls.
“If the ground stays dry then he would have an outside chance.
“He won his last five but we have all got to beat Captain Cee Bee. He won the Supreme Novices’ and looks rock solid. I could see Riverside Theatre going close too.”
