Betting tips / Timeform / 25 April 2012 / Leave a comment Bet Now View Market

Timeform's runner-by-runner guide to the Punchestown Gold Cup (Ireland).

Apt Approach has taken his form up a notch this season, winning 3 times up to 3m, including Grade 2 at Thurles. Failed to fire over Grand National fences last time but out of depth here in any case.

Bostons Angel landed trio of Grade 1s as a novice, including narrow success in RSA Chase at Cheltenham, but not hit same heights this time around, also hinting at temperament in headgear of late.

Captain Chris was last season's Arkle winner and even better this time around, third in King George and fourth in Ryanair. Step back up in trip and return to right-handed track should suit, and he's respected.

Follow the Plan won corresponding race last term (left clear at last) and notched third Grade 1 success at Aintree last time tried in cheekpieces. A reproduction of that would see him there or thereabouts.

Magnanimity was not far off the best novice chasers in 2010/11, fourth in RSA at Cheltenham, but has proved more miss than hit this time around and didn't impress with his finishing effort penultimate start.

Noble Prince has stepped up on novice form this season, winning Grade 3 at Naas prior to twice chasing home Big Zeb. Went as if amiss in Ryanair last time, though, and barely stayed 3m over hurdles.

Quantitativeeasing has compiled a good record in valuable handicaps this term, showing very smart form when scoring at Cheltenham in December. Bit disappointing last time but this looks a weak Grade 1 so place claims.

Quel Esprit has been successful on all four completed starts over fences and was completing the hat-trick when taking Irish Hennessy at Leopardstown last time, making most and jumping well. Leading player.

Roberto Goldback put up a solid effort in blinkers when chasing home Quel Esprit in Irish Hennessy in February, but well beaten both starts since and very hard to see him playing a prominent role here.

Rubi Light looked as good as ever when making all in John Durkan at Punchestown and Red Mills Chase at Gowran this term, form that gives him solid claims. Didn't convince with stamina for 3m in Lexus, though.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. Quel Esprit
2. Captain Chris
3. Rubi Light

Timeform Verdict
Quel Esprit is the only runner in the field which looks on an upward curve, and he already boasts some of the best form on offer, so he's an obvious selection. Captain Chris will be a big threat provided his jumping holds up, while Rubi Light should give a bold sight for a long way but may not see things out fully at this trip.