See also » Altior bids to extend winning run in Champion Chase
We hope he can win his 18th consecutive race. Everything has gone quite smoothly,. I will never forget this time last year, he literally came out on three legs on the Monday morning and that is how frightening this game is. The prep has been good. We have come in on a different strategy this year and we stopped after the Clarence House. He has been great. Soft ground doesn’t help Altior, but he is in great form and they should set him a good gallop. We’ve just got to go out and do it. This has been the objective all year and he is the guy we rely on to head the squad. Nicky Henderson, trainer

Min (FR) wore earplugs and Altior (IRE) wore earplugs which were removed at the start.

The Stewards noted that the Clerk of the Course had given permission for Politologue (FR) to parade out of order.

As the gelding was proving unruly he further allowed him to break the parade and canter to the start.

After reviewing the start the Stewards were satisfied that when the flag dropped the horses were well grouped but that Saint Calvados (FR) and Altior (IRE) jumped away quickly from the start.

Following the race Paddy Brennan reported that GOD’S OWN (IRE), which was pulled up after the second last fence, lost its action.

The Veterinary Officer reported that a post-race exaMination of God's Own (IRE) found it to be lame left hind.

For 5yo+ who are allotted a rating of 130 or more by the BHA Head of Handicapping following a review of the horses entered and after taking account of races run up to and including the day prior to confirmation - horses who are not qualified for a rating in Great Britain, Ireland or France may also be entered & such horses may be eligible providing the Handicapper is satisfied that the horse's racecourse performances up to and including the day prior to confirmation would merit a minimum rating of 130 (the decision of the BHA Head of Handicapping shall be final).
Weights - 11st 10lb each
Allowances - Mares allowed 7lb