Date: Wednesday 13th March 2024
The Champion Chase has an odd habit of making fools of those who think it is straightforward. Even with a standout horse at the top of the market, this race has regularly thrown up surprise results when jumping errors or tactical issues come into play.
The strongest long-term angles remain proven two-mile chasing form, previous Cheltenham experience and enough racing in the season to arrive match fit. This year’s market leader has huge ability, but the race itself still demands respect.
These are the three that come out best on the Turf Talk ratings.
TURF TALK RATINGS - LEADING CONTENDERS
| Horse | Turf Talk Rating |
|---|---|
| El Fabiolo | 229 |
| Captain Guinness | 208 |
| Edwardstone | 199 |
| Jonbon | 191 |
| Boothill | 179 |
| Nube Negra | 171 |
| Ferny Hollow | 163 |
The ratings are driven by specialist two-mile chase form, official class, chase experience and whether the horse has already shown Grade 1 quality over fences. Cheltenham experience also remains a very strong positive.
MAIN SELECTION
El Fabiolo (2/5 available)
He comes out clear top on the ratings and has the profile of a horse who should dominate this division.
He has the Arkle route, the right age, the class and the stable profile, and on pure ability he looks the one they all have to beat. If he jumps cleanly and handles the occasion, he should take some stopping.
BACKUP SELECTION 1
Captain Guinness (10/1 available)
A bigger-priced runner who fits more of the specialist profile than some of the shorter ones in behind.
He has the experience, enough course form and looks the sort who could capitalise if the favourite fails to complete or underperforms. He is not as naturally gifted as the main selection, but his overall profile is stronger than the market may suggest.
BACKUP SELECTION 2
Edwardstone (15/2 available)
Still capable of running a big race and one that makes sense on a lot of the key trends.
He has the two-mile experience and the right level of class, and he is battle-hardened enough for a race like this. He may not have the same upside as the top one, but he remains a very credible alternative.
SUMMARY
El Fabiolo dominates the ratings and is taken as the main selection, with Captain Guinness and Edwardstone the strongest alternatives in a race where favourite backers still need to respect the history of upsets.
