Reynolds Wary Of Bellshill Threat

Owner Philip Reynolds believes Presenting Percy’s main rival for Cheltenham Gold Cup glory will be Bellshill.

Presenting Percy has been tipped by many to win next Friday’s showpiece race at the Cheltenham Festival and has previous experience of winning at the venue, following his victory in last year’s RSA Insurance Novices’ Chase.

The Patrick Kelly-trained eight-year-old was also a winner on his only start of the season to date at Gowran Park in January and Reynolds believes the gelding is ready to compete for Gold Cup glory.

However, Reynolds knows Presenting Percy won’t have it all his own way in the Grade One race and is expecting a challenge from the Willie Mullins-trained Bellshill.

“Looking at the race, there are a number of horses who all have a great chance,” Reynolds was quoted as saying by The Mirror.

“There are five or six horses towards the top of the market who all have a chance, but probably the one I worry about is Bellshill.

“He is a Grade One winner of a bumper, a hurdle and over fences, and jumped very well in last year’s Irish National.

He stays, jumps and won’t mind any type of ground, so he has the overall profile of one to watch. “However, we are pleased with Presenting Percy and we are looking forward to running him.”