Thistlecrack heads Gold Cup entries

Colin Tizzard could have as many as five runners in the Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup on March 17.

Tizzard is responsible for three of the leading contenders for the blue riband, for which 39 entries have been received, with King George VI Chase winner Thistlecrack spearheading his team.

As well as last year's World Hurdle winner, Tizzard has entered Betfair Chase winner Cue Card, Hennessy Gold Cup and Welsh National hero Native River, Alary and Theatre Guide.

Last year's winner Don Cossack was included in the entries before Tuesday's deadline but he was retired on Wednesday morning after suffering a recurrence of a tendon injury.

Despite his retirement, Gordon Elliott still has four potential runners with last year's third Don Poli, Lexus Chase winner Outlander, Empire Of Dirt and Roi Des Francs all engaged in the feature event.

In total there are 17-Irish-trained horses entered with Henry de Bromhead responsible for Champagne West, Sub Lieutenant and Valseur Lido, while Willie Mullins has the option of sending dual runner-up Djakadam and Vroum Vroum Mag.

Other Irish possibles include Noel Meade's Road To Riches, 2014 winner Lor Windermere from Jim Culloty's yard as well as the Jessica Harrington-trained Sizing John.

Jonjo O'Neill is currently triple-handed with Minella Rocco, More Of That and Taquin Du Seuil all entered along with the Paul Nicholls-trained Silviniaco Conti and Saphir Du Rheu.

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