Jockey Lee Edwards survives Ludlow scare
Ludlow trainer Henry Daly is hoping for a big run from Kingsmere in tomorrow's Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham
The seven-year-old, who will carry just 10st, looked like playing a huge part in the finish of a hot novice chase at the last meeting as he was in front when he fell two out.
"I honestly don't know if Kingsmere would have won but he was running a very good race. You couldn't tell, but he would have definitely been there or thereabouts," said Daly.
"I want a fast run race for the Kingsmere which I'm pretty sure I am going to get. Last time at Cheltenham they went no gallop and I think we will be better for a faster run race.
"He hasn't surprised me at all with his progress over fences. He has always shown plenty at home and has improved for a fence, which most of mine do.
"I'm not sure how much improvement he has in him but we will find out. The trip and the ground should be fine for him and Sam Twiston-Davies rides."
Kingsmere will be taking on Cheltenham festival winner Al Ferof, owned by Cosford businessman John Hales. The grey is all the rage with the punters, coming in from 16-1 to 7-1.
Hales reports his seven-year-old, half-brother to his Grand National winner Neptune Collonges, to be "flying" in training.
Al Ferof's trainer Paul Nicholls also saddles Poquelin for the third year running, plus Aerial, who was fourth last year.
The Nicholls team will be taking on David Pipe's bold jumper Grand Crus, who is the 9-4 favourite with the sponsors despite being on a retrieval mission in the first major handicap of the new National Hunt season.
