Walsh supported for Leading Jockey

Ruby Walsh has attracted strong support to become Leading RIder at Cheltenham this week, and is now generally a 6/4 chance.

Coral spokesman Simon Clare said on Monday: "Ruby Walsh had been friendless in the top jockey betting up until yesterday but normal service has now been resumed and over half the bets we are taking on the market are for him to retain his crown.

Walsh, who is 6-4 for top jockey with Coral and as short as 11-8 with other firms, has three rides on the opening day of the festival including Quevega in the David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle and Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle.

Barry Geraghty is next best in the betting at a general 5/2, with Robert Thornton and Tony McCoy generally 10/1 chances.