Monk And Gold Head Aon Field Monkerhostin and Celestial Gold head the 14 five-day entries for the AON Chase at Newbury on Saturday. Won last year by the ill-fated Farmer Jack, the Newbury race is the last recognised trial on this side of the Irish Sea for the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup, for which Monkerhostin is vying for favouritism. Celestial Gold finished third in the race 12 months ago after winning both the Paddy Power and Hennessy Gold Cups, before coming seventh in the blue riband at Cheltenham. This year, however, he has been campaigned with the Gold Cup as his major target and is yet to have a run. He is one of five entries for Martin Pipe along with Our Vic, Joaaci, Therealbandit and Comply or Die. Gold Cup runner-up Take The Stand could use the race as a stepping stone in an attempt to go one better, while Francois Doumen may send over L´Ami from France and Nicky Henderson can rely on the fragile but talented Irish Hussar. Graphic Approach, Lord of Illusion, Joes Edge, My Will and Black De Bessy complete the entries.(C) PA Sport
