Salmon is Hourigan's pride and joy

Beef Or Salmon, Ireland’s main hope for Thursday’s Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup, is rated superior to stable companion Dorans Pride in his prime, trainer Michael Hourigan revealed today.

A top-class performer at his best, Dorans Pride won the 1995 Stayers’ Hurdle at the Festival before twice finishing third in the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1997 and 1998 for Hourigan.

“Dorans Pride could account for Commanche Court most of the time and he was only a length behind Best Mate last year. Beef Or Salmon is far better than Dorans Pride ever was,” declared the trainer.

“This horse has oodles of class and Timmy Murphy says he has everything going for him to win a Gold Cup. I’ve no doubts about the trip.”

Beef Or Salmon has already stretched his legs at Prestbury Park having arrived at the track on Monday.

Hourigan added: “The horse arrived yesterday evening, walked round for an hour, cantered two furlongs this morning and we can’t do a lot more now.

“I don’t think I could have him much better than he is.

“He’s the baby in the race and has a lot to do but needs luck in running and if he gets it he should run a huge race.”

Beef Or Salmon is a general 4-1 second favourite behind 6-4 shot Best Mate for chasing’s blue riband event.