All the hype was around fan favourite Tiger Roll in this year’s renewal of the Cross Country Chase at the Cheltenham Festival but French raider Easysland came and spoiled the party and did so in decisive fashion.
Sporting the JP McManus green and yellow stripes for the second time, the 3/1 second favourite always looked to be travelling best and when the two-time Grand National hero was unable to quicken up after two out he began to assert.
David Cottin’s gelding finished 17-lengths ahead of Tiger Roll, who still managed to finish 18-lengths of third place Out Sam. This distance between the placed horses suggests Tiger Roll has ran a fair race and has simply bumped into a classy horse on a going day; even despite Elliott’s claims about the ground.
🇫🇷 Victory for France in the Glenfarclas Cross Country! 🇫🇷
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 11, 2020
Rising star Easysland brings up a fantastic seven-timer and remains unbeaten at the track with a commanding success.
The legendary Tiger Roll goes out on his shield in second 👏 #CheltenhamFestival @davidcottin pic.twitter.com/Ss6XETxEDU
Some firms are currently offering 33/1 about his chances at Aintree next season with others chopping him down to 14/1.
He is four years younger than Tiger Roll and still has plenty of room for improvement. If connections opt for this route he looks a cracking e/w price.