Our leading tipsters give their fancy for the Cheltenham Gold Cup

Ahead of Friday's Cheltenham Gold Cup, three of the Racing Post's leading tipsters give their big-race fancy

Presenting Percy

Some Gold Cups are won primarily with class, others with stamina. No matter which category this year's race falls into, Presenting Percy is bound to be right there. He looked a top-notcher when winning last year's RSA Chase, the Gold Cup for novices, and has won over 3m5f so is all but guaranteed to get home over today's 3m2f.
Keith Melrose, betting editor

Native River leads last year's Gold Cup fieldCredit: Mark Cranham

Native River

Native River looks to have a huge chance of following up his victory in this contest 12 months ago under Richard Johnson. He made all that day and fended off Might Bite after a long battle up the hill and he comes into this year's contest with the least to prove. Native River loves it around here and can put up a bold bid once again.
Tom Collins, tipster

Thistlecrack: already a championship race winner at CheltenhamCredit: Edward Whitaker

Thistlecrack

Preference is for Native River's charismatic stablemate Thistlecrack, who showed that the ability is still very much there when second to the up-and-coming but unproven stayer Clan Des Obeaux in the King George last time. Although 11 now, he has not had much racing for one his age.
Mel Cullinan, Spotlights