Cheltenham Clues? – Queen Mother Champion Chase

Cheltenham Clues? – Queen Mother Champion Chase

Old Course at Cheltenham: Two-Miles: Twelve Fences

Unsurprisingly, Sprinter Sacre is well clear on ratings. I see no point in discussing whether he will run or not at this stage. Suffice to say one hopes we are kept up to date with his progress.

Sire De Grugy has been beaten twice at Cheltenham in two visits. In addition, despite his successes this season, his RPR rating has not improved since his seasonal return at Chepstow. Somersby is running well this season but is unlikely to improve further. He has run seven times at Cheltenham with one second and three thirds to his name. Captain Conan ran well on his reappearance when third to Sire De Grugy in the Tingle Creek at Sandown Park. He stays two and a half-miles, has won at Cheltenham, and is sure to improve.

At Leopardstown over Christmas, Benefficient landed his third Grade One when getting the better of Hidden Cyclone, and Arvika Legionnaire. Further back, Sizing Europe, Baily Green, and Kid Cassidy were well beaten. Despite the tight finish, I would expect Benefficient to come out on top, if, he produces his best. He won the Jewson Chase last season and possesses admirable battling qualities in the heat of battle. I personally believe he is best when fresh. Twinlight is improving but will need to jump better than he did last time out.

I am not sure any of the novice chasers will prove up to this test.

Perhaps the most interesting entry is Al Ferof. He appeared not to stay the three-miles at Kempton Park, despite possessing the breeding to do so. However, with entries in the Ryanair and Gold Cup, one can only speculate as to where he will end up. He jumped well and showed plenty of speed on his return at Ascot. In late 2011 he won Grade One & Two Chases at Sandown Park and Cheltenham over two-miles. 20/1 with Chandlers under a Non-runner, Free bet condition, may look attractive by the time March comes around.