Ladbrokes Trophy (aka Hennessy Gold Cup)

[Bayoffreedom]

Looks like they're out already

That's efficiency for you! Next forfeit on 14/11 so might just wait to see who's left after that.

[Faugheen_Machine]

Do we know if Smad Place is a runner in this?

[Garrison Savannah]

Do we know if Smad Place is a runner in this?

No idea - but he'll struggle with the weight he's got I would guess.

[Kevloaf]

Do we know if Smad Place is a runner in this?

Think they said they'll skip it despite the entry

[Faugheen_Machine]

Think they said they'll skip it despite the entry

If Smad doesn't turn up, American will carry top weight.

[Kevloaf]

If Smad doesn't turn up, American will carry top weight.

*....and Bolt up and become a genuine Gold Cup contender

[BigChaang]

did a small bet today on Caroles destrier for this race - 33-1 , w.hill.

[Garrison Savannah]

Bradstocks still talking up Coneygree for the Hennessy - how long until he's withdrawn....?

[Vautour]

Bradstocks still talking up Coneygree for the Hennessy - how long until he's withdrawn....?

Don't be saying that - American needs him in so he doesn't carry top weight!

[Faugheen_Machine]

Don't be saying that - American needs him in so he doesn't carry top weight!

[BigChaang]

Anyone going to newbury next friday, or Saturday for the Ladbrokes ??.

[Kevloaf]

Anyone going to newbury next friday, or Saturday for the Ladbrokes ??.

Me and Jono are meeting up for it!

[BigChaang]

Hoping to go myself , next Saturday .

[Rhinestone_Cowboy]

Anyone have any thoughts on how much American's chances could be affected if it is a dry week?

[Bayoffreedom]

Anyone have any thoughts on how much American's chances could be affected if it is a dry week?

It's Good to Soft, Soft in places right now and, at this time of year even with a dry week, it may only dry up to Good to Soft all around. Even so, that would be the quickest ground he has run on since his novice hurdle win at Ascot. His ability to jump out of soft ground and gallop was a differentiator at Warwick and Uttoxeter; he may lose some of that advantage on quicker ground and may struggle to hold his position. It's a concern but he has looked very impressive and hopefully the extra couple of furlongs will allow him to get into the right rhythm even on faster than ideal going.
I would have similar concerns about Total Recall; his best performances have been on soft and heavy ground. Of the ones at the head of the market, the likely going will most suit SingleFarmPayment and Whisper.

It will be interesting to see the remaining entries tomorrow.