2008 and 2009 Champion Chase hero Master Minded looked right back to his best with success in the re-routed Tingle Creek. Patiently ridden by Noel Fehily behind leaders Petit Robin and I’m So Lucky, he took command before the second last and pulled clear to record an easy win from his nearest pursuer Petit Robin who himself was running his best race for some time.
In scenes reminiscent of the Festival he was cheered all the way back to the Winners Enclosure. A special mention has to be given to Somersby who reared up and fell on the walk way out on to the course and ran a mighty race to finish third. Two miles looks to be too short for Somersby and it would be really interesting if he were to be entered in the Ryanair at the Festival, The 12/1 currently available with William Hill looks value at this stage.
As for Master Minded he looks set to regain his crown as Champion Chaser in March.
Guest post by Cathryn Fry
