Europe all set for Queen Mother

Sizing Europe passed his final serious test before the sportingbet.com Queen Mother Champion Chase with a satisfactory workout at the Curragh today.

Trainer Henry de Bromhead said the reigning champion chaser thrived in a 10-furlong spin under regular jockey Andrew Lynch.

De Bromhead will now tread a cautious path with the 10-year-old before setting sail for Cheltenham on Sunday.

"He went very well under Andrew and we were very happy with him," said the County Waterford handler.

"It was nothing too heavy, it was just a bit of a blow-out over 10 furlongs.

"Things went according to plan and we have him where we want.

"We'll just tip away quietly with him between now and then.

"The plan is to hopefully leave for England on Sunday and get there on Sunday evening."

Sizing Europe is the even-money favourite to retain his crown at Cheltenham next Wednesday after winning his last two races - the Tingle Creek Chase and the Tied Cottage Chase - in some style.