Champion Chase: who is the value play after a very informative weekend?

Taking place on Day 2 of the Cheltenham Festival, the Champion Chase is one of the big four races and every trainer wants to win it. It’s shaping up to be a very competitive event this year, with several top horses looking to establish themselves in the division. A lot happened last weekend, with the Tingle Creek at Sandown and the Hilly Way Chase at Cork. Now is a good time to assess the main contenders and find some value. Check out our free tips page for daily content across British and Irish racing.

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Tingle Creek shakes up the market

Willie Mullins’ Il Etait Temps defied a huge absence to get the better of Jonbon in the Celebration Chase in April and was fancied to do so again. The flying grey was much too good for Nicky Henderson’s star once again and his impressive display catapulted him to the front of the market.

You can certainly see why that is the case but there are some concerns with regards to his effectiveness at Cheltenham. He didn’t jump well when third behind Gaelic Warrior in the 2024 Arkle and although he’s probably a better horse now, it’s reasonable to be worried.

Jumping lets Mullins hotshot down

Majborough returned in the Hilly Way Chase at Cork on Sunday and expectations were high for Willie Mullins’ gelding. Jumping was his Achilles Heel in the Arkle back in March and it was a similar story at the weekend. Poor jumping will give you no chance in a Champion Chase and it’s a big concern.

The value play

Marine Nationale is the defending champion and Il Etait Temps’ success has pushed him out to 4/1. We don’t really know what’s going on with Sir Gino this season so Barry Connell’s stable star could be the way to go. The son of French Navy hasn’t been seen since winning at Punchestown and the 170-rated chaser is surely still the one to beat.

16:00

Cheltenham

Marine Nationale

Analysis

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