Earlier this week, Joe Napier sat down with last year’s Grand National winning rider Derek Fox, to speak about his Cheltenham Festival chances and more, courtesy of William Hill. He covers Corach Rambler’s hopes in the Gold Cup, where Ahoy Senor and Apple Away may be heading, and who would be his NAP of the meeting.
You can sign up to William Hill today and get £30 in Free Bets when you bet £10 in time for the 2024 Cheltenham Festival.
How much are you looking forward to riding Corach Rambler in the Gold Cup and beyond?
Derek Fox: “We’re really looking forward to him. He had his first run in a Grade 1 in open company at Haydock and I think he will have improved a lot since then. He has form round the track, winning at the last two Festivals and a novice chase there before. He would have to step forward on what he has done before, but I feel he is a horse who wins with a little bit up his sleeve, so if there is anything weakening up the hill at the end, they’ll not want to see Corach Rambler coming, as he’ll gallop all the way to line.”
He has been kept fresh since Haydock, so how close do you think he can get to Galopin Des Champs and the more experienced Grade 1 horses?
DF: “The stronger the gallop, the better it will be for him. He went for a racecourse gallop at Carlisle recently and worked as well, if not better, than ever and I think Lucinda will have him spot on for Cheltenham.”
Ahoy Senor is apparently set to run in the Ryanair. Is that still the plan and would it make it difficult choosing between him and Corach Rambler in the Gold Cup?
DF: “I’ve spoken to the owners and my opinion is that he should run in the Ryanair. He stays very well, but he never lacks for early speed in any race, no matter where he runs. The Ryanair could be the slightly easier race and a course like Cheltenham, with a steep finish, I think could really suit him.”
Apple Away could be your other big ride of the week. If she’s set to run at the Festival, will she go for a handicap or open company?
DF: “I was happy with Apple Away the last day at Ascot. She’s been an absolute superstar so far and taken to fences nicely. If she were to get into the Ultima, with a strong gallop to aim at, she’d be very competitive off her rating I would think. She’s definitely one I’m looking forward to. I wanted to take a lead on her at Ascot, but she’ll be good off a gallop. It is not confirmed yet, as she could run in the Brown Advisory, but she’s in great form at home.”
Who would be your NAP of the meeting, either one you are or aren’t riding?
DF: “I suppose Jonbon. I know he has a bit to find with El Fabiolo, but he has always been one I’ve watched and whose style of running I like. He’s a bit of a price and one I think could turn around the form.”
You’ve enjoyed Grand National success twice now. What are the similarities between your two winners, Corach Rambler and One For Arthur?
DF: “They had similarities, but One For Arthur lacked a small bit of cruising speed early doors. You always found yourself well back on him and you depended on a strong gallop on him. Corach Rambler is different in the sense that he can travel and has a bit of place, and a lot of class. You can say he travels in snatches, but he loves something to aim at, and saves a burst for the end of his races. He landed in front in the National too early, but he had enough saved. Comparing the two, they’re very different in some ways: One For Arthur was very determined and could be asked up at any fence, but Corach Rambler has that extra bit of class.”
Derek Fox was speaking to GG on behalf of William Hill
Looking For More Racing Info? Check Out Our Racecards & Top Tips Sections
Make sure you’re following us on all our social media platforms to keep up to date with all the latest horse racing news and the best tips.