TimeformBlog

Albertas Run is a three-time Cheltenham Festival winner, including 2010/11 renewal of the Ryanair Chase. Narrowly denied 3-timer in that race last month and won this in 2010, so needs considering.

Finian's Rainbow is a bold-jumping front runner who is 6 from 8 over fences, and arrives on the back of a career-best having landed the Champion Chase (2m) last month. This trip not a problem and the one to beat.

Forpadydeplasterer is without a win since the 2009 Arkle though has finished in the frame in most starts since, including runner-up to Albertas Run in this race in 2010. Not as good now, though, and others preferred.

Kalahari King was in the frame at 4 consecutive Cheltenham Festivals until well beaten in the Ryanair Chase last month. Not quite the force of old.

Kauto Stone followed Grade 2 win at Down Royal (2½m) with a clear second to Sizing Europe in Tingle Creek. Flopped at Ascot in February and fell at the first in Champion Chase latest, so bit to prove now.

Poquelin's last 5 wins were gained at Cheltenham, but a good second over this C&D in October 2010. Form of Cheltenham second in January from stiff mark in handicap has been boosted, and well worth considering.

Pure Faith is a dual chase winner who was likely flattered behind Albertas Run over C&D in October. Out of sorts since and a major surprise if he goes close here.

Wishfull Thinking was hugely progressive last season, winning at both Aintree and Punchestown festivals. Disappointing this time round, however, and must bounce back from nasty-looking fall.


Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Poquelin
2. Finian's Rainbow
3. Albertas Run

Timeform View: Finian's Rainbow will understandably be popular, but at the likely prices it may be worth taking a chance on Poquelin. He had an impossible task trying to give stacks of weight to The Giant Bolster (subsequent runner-up in Cheltenham Gold Cup) last time, but could cause a minor upset if the Champion Chase winner isn't at his best. 2010 winner Albertas Run is also respected.


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