Craig trying to keep cool
Ulster businessman Joe Craig could never be accused of going overboard when his horse Beef Or Salmon wins.
But he could be excused for contemplating a few handstands if the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup comes his way tomorrow.
“It’s difficult reminding yourself not to get too excited. After all, it’s only a horse race,” he said.
“Of course, it would be hard to stay cool. I try not to get over enthusiastic about his chances beforehand, but I have backed him at 14-1 and that was struck in the autumn. At that stage I was confident he would run a big race at the Festival and, so far, I see no reason to change my mind.
“Beef Or Salmon has had an up and down career as we all know. He injured his back on his first visit to Cheltenham two years ago, but he ran a big race last year when finishing fourth after having had all sorts of problems.
“I have been delighted with him this season and don’t forget that he beat Kicking King impressively at Down Royal in November, and he also hammered Best Mate at Leopardstown.
“I suppose you could say that race was the highlight of my career as an owner, for I never forget the excitement as I led him through the winner’s enclosure. At the same time, though, he ran an even better race, in my view, at Punchestown last year and if he reproduces the form he showed then, there will be nothing to stop him.”
Craig, naturally enough, does not suffer from lack of confidence, but he is an astute individual that has been round many corners in the racing game.
He knows that although some of the bigger names have dropped out of big event, it still will not be an easy race to win.
But he believes that if jockey Paul Carberry gets Beef Or Salmon settled early on, he will win.
“I have great faith in Paul,” he said. “He rode a blinder when winning on Beef Or Salmon in the Lexus Chase at Christmas.
“He’s a great character and hopefully, Beef Or Salmon will give Paul his big day. But although Best Mate is absent, along with some of the other names like Kingscliff and Rule Supreme, we still have it all to do.
“Kicking King has been mooted to be our biggest danger, but I honestly don’t think he will reverse the placings of Down Royal. I just don’t believe he will stay the extended three miles, while our fellow certainly will.
“To win the Gold Cup would be unbelievable as far as I’m concerned and it would be a great occasion to bring this trophy back to Northern Ireland. I have a sneaking suspicion that we’ll do it, but I’m almost afraid to say so. That’s how the Gold Cup grabs you.”
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