Banking on Big Zeb

THERE were some fears that a deluge of rain would turn the ground soft for this season’s Cheltenham Festival but, at this stage, only a storm of biblical proportions could really affect the going before the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle gets the show on the road tomorrow afternoon.

The prospect of a sound surface is a real positive for Big Zeb and, as long as the ground does not deteriorate, he looks to be the banker bet of the week for the Irish. The Champion Chaser has jumped better than ever this season and I would have no hesitation in saying that, despite being beaten only once in a very profitable campaign at home, Big Zeb has been performing within himself all season long.

The ground is the absolute key to this horse at this level of competition and, provided it’s in his favour, he can surpass all previous form. Master Minded, twice a winner of this race, has bounced back to form this season, but he retains none of the air of invincibility he once diffused and may have to settle for minor honours.