IRISH POST racing columnist Dougie Costello expects Carlingford Lough to be 'there or thereabouts' in Friday's Betfred Gold Cup.
It will be champion jockey AP McCoy's last ride in the famous race, and Costello thinks the John Kiely trained Carlingford Lough can make an impact.
"Nothing would surprise me because AP McCoy is such a good jockey," Costello says. "It will be an emotional day for him.
"In Cheltenham there are always a couple of stories for some reason. There is usually something dramatic during the Festival.
"I think that Carlingford Lough will be there or thereabouts. The horse is coming into the Gold Cup in good form and with AP on board I'd give it a great chance."
Other leading contenders include Silviniaco Conti, who has won the past two King George VI Chases at Kempton.
Paul Nicholls has trained four previous Gold Cup winners including See More Business, Kauto Star (2), and Denman.
