HERE it is then, the one that punters across the land have been waiting for - it's Gold Cup day.

After a week of typically top class racing, the Cheltenham Festival concludes with horses of the highest calibre fighting it out to claim one of the sport's ultimate prizes.

Here are today's fancied runners and riders...

1.30 Triumph Hurdle

Nicky Henderson has had a successful week so far and, in Charli Parcs (7/2), has another strong contender in Friday's opener.

Dandy Mag (28/1), to be ridden by Paul Townend, looks a good price for a horse that has not finished outside the top two in its three most recent races.

2.10 County Handicap Hurdle

With 26 runners to choose from this is the lottery of the day, but Arctic Fire (20/1) is a consistent performer and has placed when setting off from higher odds at Cheltenham in the past.

Those who fancy picking a winner from among the pack may be tempted by the excellently-named Air Horse One (12/1), who goes in search of a fourth win on the spin.

2.50 Albert Bartlett Novices Hurdle

The precursor to the main event looks like being a close-run affair, but The Worlds End (10/1) is in great nick at the moment and should go well.

As an each way shout, you could do a lot worse than Any Drama (25/1).

3.30 Cheltenham Gold Cup

The highlight of the festival is set to be a belter, with Cue Card and Djakadam the two favourites.

We are looking a bit further afield, however, and casting particularly glowing looks in the direction of Outlander (10/1), who beat Djakadam in his last outing at Leopardstown in December and will be raring to go in the big race.

Champagne West (18/1) may be backed by the Westcountry punters, who will be able to afford a few bottles of the French beverage if the well-priced horse leads the field home.

4.10 Foxhunter Steeple Chase

Ruby Walsh is having an excellent week, but in this one it may be time for his sister to shine as Kate sits atop the impressive Wonderful Charm (13/2).

4.50 Conditional Jockeys Hurdle

At this stage of the week punters will either be on cloud nine or in a pit of despair.

Don't worry about a thing, however, as every little thing in the 4.50 is going to be alright thanks to I Shot The Sheriff (16/1).

Those not a fan of mixed metaphors involving Bob Marley should check out Coo Star Sivola (14/1).

5.30 Grand Annual Chase

The curtain draws on the festival for another year with this one, in which Dodging Bullets (14/1) can roll back the years at a venue where he has enjoyed himself before.

Enjoy the day, and feel free to send us your tips by tweeting us @CountyGazSport.

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