RACING: Denman and Kauto Star feature among 28 horses left in the £475,000 totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup at the latest forfeit stage.
Denman led a one-two-three for trainer Paul Nicholls last March, pushing 2007 winner Kauto Star back into second with Neptune Collonges third.
Nicholls still has seven left in chasing's blue riband prize on March 13th, the others being Big Buck's, My Will, Nozic and Star De Mohaison.
Madison Du Berlais, conqueror of Denman at Kempton on Saturday, is one of four representing David Pipe's stable. The others are 2008 Ryanair Chase scorer Our Vic, Arteea and Milan Deux Mille.
A third past winner out to regain his crown is War Of Attrition and Mouse Morris's charge is one of four Irish possibles along with Welsh National victor Notre Pere, Snowy Morning and Thyne Again.
Others standing their ground include The Queen's Barbers Shop, Air Force One, Albertas Run, Exotic Dancer and The Listener.
There were no surprises among the 10 withdrawals - An Accordion, Cane Brake, Finger Onthe Pulse, Gungadu, Joe Lively, Mister Top Notch, Or Noir De Somoza, Slim Pickings, Tidal Bay and Trabolgan.