Get ready for an exciting twist in the world of horse racing! Martin Brassil's strategy for Fastorslow's Gold Cup bid is a game-changer.
Brassil, a seasoned trainer, has a plan to ensure his star horse, Fastorslow, is in peak condition for the prestigious Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup. The key? Keeping him "nice and fresh."
Fastorslow, a three-time Grade 1 champion, has had some close calls at the Cheltenham Festival. But this time, he's coming in with his longest break before the event, giving him an edge, according to Brassil.
"The Gold Cup is our target, and so far, Fastorslow is looking great," Brassil shared. "We gave him a couple of runs in the John Durkan and Savills Chase, and importantly, we avoided the heavy ground at Leopardstown. This should give him an advantage in the Gold Cup, where he's priced between 40-1 and 50-1."
But here's where it gets controversial... Fastorslow's last appearance was a sixth-place finish in the Savills Chase over Christmas. Some might question whether this is enough preparation for the Gold Cup. However, Brassil believes in the power of rest and recovery.
And this is the part most people miss: Fastorslow has proven his mettle in big races. In 2022, he narrowly lost the Coral Cup and came close again in the Ultima Handicap Chase. He then showed his true Grade 1 form by beating Galopin Des Champs in the Punchestown Gold Cup, a feat he repeated the following season in the John Durkan.
However, a setback after his John Durkan run ruled him out for the rest of that season. He returned this campaign, finishing third in the same race and then sixth in the Savills Chase.
Brassil, who knows a thing or two about Cheltenham success with his 2019 win with City Island in the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle, is confident in his small but mighty team for the Cotswolds.
In addition to Fastorslow, Brassil has two other horses with promising prospects: Desertmore House and Panda Boy.
Desertmore House, the 2023 Kerry National winner, is a strong contender for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase. He's excelled over the banks at Punchestown and is a 6-1 chance for the Cross Country.
Panda Boy, owned by the Gleeson family, is a 7-1 shot for the Festival Hunters' Chase. With Champion Bumper-winning rider John Gleeson in the saddle, Panda Boy is expected to thrive on the track and the extra distance.
"Desertmore House has taken to the cross-country course well, and we're hopeful he'll do the same at Cheltenham. He seems to love it!" Brassil said.
As for Panda Boy, Brassil added, "He'll enjoy the track and the distance. The better the ground, the better he'll perform. It's a great opportunity for John, and we're thrilled to see how he qualifies for this race."
Brassil also mentioned Cityofblindinlites and It's Only A Game as potential entries for the Champion Bumper, a race that will close next week.
So, what do you think? Is Brassil's strategy with Fastorslow a genius move or a risky gamble? Will Desertmore House and Panda Boy live up to their potential? Join the discussion in the comments and let us know your thoughts on these exciting Cheltenham prospects!
