DORANS PRIDE one of the big Cheltenham Gold Cup hopes, is not certain to run on Thursday because of the drying ground. Trainer Michael Hourigan plans to declare his challenger today but will leave a decision on his participation as late as possible.

"The sun beaming down is no help. I intend to walk the track and talk to the jockeys who have ridden on the course before I commit him to the race," he said. "He's not a certain starter, particularly if the weather stays as fine and sunny as it is."