Brendan Powell: The Changing Man one of my big hopes for Festival

Heading into the Festival I’m tied in tenth place in the David Power Jockeys’ Cup with Tom Cannon, but I’ve got a few good chances to earn some points this week so I’m hopeful I can push on a little bit and try and get back up the table.

Personally, I try and approach Cheltenham as I would any other day riding. It’s just horseracing! However, having said though it does undoubtedly feel different when you’re walking in and there is a real buzz about the place.

My first ride of the week is aboard The Changing Man (2.40) in the Ultima Handicap Chase, and it’s a race I’ve been quite lucky in previously, having won it twice before.

 

The Changing Man is near the top of the betting market and the win at Ascot last time hopefully has done his confidence the world of good. All of the races, be they handicaps or Championship races, are ultra-competitive so there will be plenty of dangers, but all being well we can get a clear round and a bit of luck in running and then we should have a chance.

Rock My Way (5.20) runs in the National Hunt Chase and he’s got some really good form in the book – he won a Grade Two at Cheltenham on Trials Day, albeit a couple of years ago. The track holds no fears and I think he should stay the trip just fine. Again, I’ll be hoping for a bit of luck in running and with a clear round, who knows!

There are a couple of other rides I’m particularly looking forward to later in the week that I ought to flag up for you.

JPR One is at the top of the betting in the Grand Annual and he’s a horse I always enjoying riding – he should run another big race.

I also think Lord Of Thunder can go well in the Jack Richards Novices’ Handicap Chase on Thursday. He won nicely at Newbury last time and we’ve always thought a lot of him. He looks to have a nice riding weight in this line-up.

For more information on the David Power Jockeys Cup, head to www.jockeyscup.com