Attrition among 17 still in Gold Cup picture War Of Attrition is the sole Irish challenger left in the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup after a total of 17 stood their ground at the confirmation stage. Paul Nicholls, who saddled the first three home last year, has five still entered with Denman, Kauto Star and Neptune Collonges joined by Star De Mohaison and My Will. Jonjo O'Neill also has a strong hand through Tony McCoy's mount Exotic Dancer, a 20 length victor over War Of Attrition in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown, and last year's RSA Chase winner Albertas Run. Hennessy winner Madison Du Berlais, who beat Denman at Kempton last time, has also been left in the race, while Barbers Shop and Air Force One are other notable contenders. Halcon Genelardais, Knowhere, Miko De Beauchene, Roll Along, Snoopy Loopy and rank outsider Cerium complete the possible line-up. There were no major surprises amongst the withdrawals with Big Buck's a World Hurdle contender, and the likes of State Of Play and Snowy Morning are on the John Smith's Grand National trail.
