Wetherby Tips: Harry Topper

The Charlie Hall Chase (3.35 Wetherby) is a fascinating contest as it marks the seasonal return of Long Run. It is odd to suggest an 8-year-old steeplechaser is on the decline but that is the worry with this former Gold Cup winner.

Last season he slumped to top a Racing Post Rating of 174, which is well below the 180+ marks he was getting in his previous two seasons. He is still a very good horse but not the champion he was and that leaves him vulnerable.

In opposition Harry Topper looks the most likely to shock the favourite. Kim Bailey holds him in high regard, rating him the best horse he’s had since 1995 Gold Cup winner Master Oats.

It is still early days for the 6-year-old but the potential is plain to see. He was an impressive winner of a graduation chase at Exeter back in February - his third win in a row - but then his luck run out.

He unseated Timmy Murphy when going well at Kelso and was then brought-down in the Champion Novice Chase at Punchestown.

It’s unlikely we’ve seen the best of him and unbeaten in three completed chases he looks the best bet in the race at 8/1 (Coral).

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