3:35pm Cheltenham | Friday | squareintheair.com Handicap Chase

Cheltenham is back and we’re excited to be once again sponsoring at the Showcase Meeting. Here’s the B2C team’s Jamie Woollen with a runner-by-runner guide that will hopefully help you get a run for your money!

Calico

Last year’s winner returns to defend his crown and showed he retains plenty of ability when runner-up to Sans Bruit in the Red Rum Handicap at Aintree on his final start last season. He’s proven around here and looks sure to run another solid race, though he might just be vulnerable to something better treated this time around.

Jasko Des Dames

Henry De Bromhead’s six-year-old could well be the one they all have to beat. Fifth in last season’s Grand Annual off five pounds lower, he boasts strong Festival form and shaped nicely on his return at Listowel. That run should have put him spot on, and he looks well placed to strike here off a potentially nice mark of 136.

Matata

Ran a huge race when second in this 12 months ago before progressing throughout the season, winning twice in handicaps and finishing a close third in the Grade 2 Game Spirit Chase. He’ll likely go forward again under a big weight, and while that makes life tougher, he’s a genuine danger if allowed his own way in front.

Traprain Law

Represents the Lucinda Russell and Michael Scudamore team and comes here fit after a solid second at Kelso last month. He’s gradually dropped to a workable mark, and with conditions likely to suit, he’s capable of making his presence felt despite being out the handicap, especially if the rain comes.

Brookie

Improved steadily last season, winning both of his handicap starts before contesting Grade 1 company at Aintree. Clearly talented, but his lofty mark leaves little room for error on seasonal reappearance.

Third Time Lucki

Now with Fergal O’Brien, he’s chasing a hat-trick after summer victories at Bangor-on-Dee and Uttoxeter. Once rated much higher when with Dan Skelton, he’s well handicapped on old form but needs to prove he can match that level in this deeper field.

Uncle Phil

One of the more interesting contenders, having joined rookie trainer Chester Williams from Willie Mullins’ yard and been well backed since declarations. Harry Cobden takes the ride, which catches the eye, but he’ll still need to take a step forward to land this.

Unexpected Party

Represents the Skelton team and ended last season in top company, running in both the Grand Annual and Celebration Chase. Has the class to figure if sharp enough, but he tends to save his best for the spring festivals.

Dr T J Eckleburg

Faces a stiff task from out of the handicap and looks to have plenty to find on ratings and recent form.

Verdict

Jasko Des Dames looks the one to side with after a promising comeback run at Listowel. He’s well treated on his Festival form and can get the better of the first two home in last year’s race, Matata and Calico.

Prediction:

1st – Jasko Des Dames
2nd – Matata
3rd – Calico

Who are the SITA team siding with?