Victor Chandler Champion Chase Betting

Another week and another big race weekend for Messrs Smith-Nicholls-McCoy. On Saturday Master Minded takes on eight rivals in the Victor Chandler Chase (2.25 Ascot) looking to repeat the win he enjoyed two years ago. After an injury blighted 2009/10 season Master Minded looks back to his best with wins in the Amlin Chase and Tingle Creek. Lets look at the runners to see if there is anything to worry him.

Crack Away Jack
A novice of potential he has been away from over a year, he will need to have improved and be at the top of his game to win this. It is a big ask and a watching brief is advised.

Gauvain
Has always looked a shade below Grade 1 class and was soundly put in his place in the Tingle Creek. Even after defeating Forpadydeplasterer connections weren’t convinced they had a horse of Champion Chase winning class.

I’m So Lucky
I revelation since being dropped back in trip he picked up the Bet365 Celebration Chase last April. Ran creditably in the Tingle Creek considering he has never gone well at Chetlenham. Back on right handed track he should go better.

Kalahari King
Struggled a bit this year and seems to need a step up in trip or a searing gallop at 2miles to be seen at his best. Unlikely to get conditions to suit and form starting to look regressive.

Mad Max
A drop back in trip and out of big field handicaps is going to help the probably pacesetter. A repeat of his career best Arkle run would put him in the mix and with the Henderson stable flying this lightly raced 9yo has a chance.

Master Minded
Very hard to knock his form a dual Champion Chaser, he is back to his best this season. The only thing to put you off is his price.

Petit Robin
Ran a cracker in the Tingle Creek has conditions to suit although has never looked like getting past Master Minded. He has always run best fresh which must be a concern in his second race of the season.

Somersby
Needs a strong gallop to bring his extra stamina into play he is might not get the race run to suit. A classy performer whatever happens at Ascot he is bound to improve on at Cheltenham.

Tchico Polos
Difficult to judge, on his Haldon win his is in the mix but defeat in a recent handicap at Sandown doesn’t read particulaly well. He should be winning those types of races if he is to compete at the very top level.

Summary
Master Minded will have to under perform to lose this but with 9 runners and short price jolly the each way outsider is the play. Away from Cheltenham i’m expecting I’m So Lucky to recapture the form he showed at the backend of last season.