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Captain Chris set for Argento glory at Cheltenham
By Stephen, BettingExpert.com | Edited
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Captain Chris can enhance his Gold Cup claims by landing the Grade Two Argento Chase at Cheltenham this afternoon.
Phillip Hobbs top class 8-y-o made a smooth transition to chasing last season, culminating with a gutsy victory when sent over to Punchestown in May, and his progress resumed this term when a clear third behind Kauto Star in the King George. He was under pressure in rear a long way out there in a grade one run at a decent pace, and did well to stay on up the straight behind the principals. The form got a boost when the fourth Somersby won the VC Chase last Saturday, and he is sure to get a more positive ride by Richard Johnson this afternoon, with his stamina now proven at this trip.
Main danger is Paul Webber's Time for Rupert. He put a poor run at Wetherby behind him when landing the odds in a four runner conditions chase at Newbury in December, getting on well with new rider Denis 0'Regan. He has a good record at this uniquely undulating course, although was never travelling at all when favourite at the festival in the RSA chase, and does tend to come up short when upped in class.
Midnight Chase is a prolific frontrunner who is sure to set a fast pace. He shaped well when third under 11-12 on Boxing Day in a top grade handicap and appears to have been laid out for this race at his favourite course (four career wins here).
Carruthers gamely landed an emotional win in the Hennessy in November, but that race appears to have "bottomed" him and he never went a yard when fancied at Chepstow last time, jumping poorly and needing riding along afer a mile.
Diamond Harry was withdrawn lame on the day of the King George and there must be a slight fitness doubt about him after that. He made a pleasing reappearance in the Betfair Chase, travelling well wide until tiring from three out, and seemed sure to benefit for the run before this latest injury problem.
Tidal Bay represents the champion trainer Paul Nicholls and comes here having run a promising third on debut for the yard. He is a smooth jumping, strong traveller who has always threatened to become a graded performer, however this drying ground may not be ideal and the form of his latest run has been let down.
In summary, a fascinating renewal for the £100,000 prize money, but a fine chance for Captain Chris to prove himself at the top level. At around 3-1 this morning he represents a substancial win investment to swoop late as the frontrunners tire up the hill.
Stephen's Saturday Nap Captain Chris 2.35 Cheltenham
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