Vic Heads Cotswold Field

Our Vic is set to put his Gold Cup credentials on the line on Saturday in the Letheby And Christopher Chase at Cheltenham where he will face a maximum of 13 rivals.

Registered as the Cotswold Chase, the Grade Two contest is seen as the ideal trial for the blue riband event in March.

David Pipe's nine-year-old created a huge impression on his only start of the season to date when he won the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on the bridle by seven lengths.

Runner-up that day was the Paul Nicholls-trained Neptune Collonges, who is set to renew his acquaintance at the weekend.

Since the Charlie Hall, he has landed the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle but then disappointed back over hurdles last time.

'Neptune Collonges definitely runs at Cheltenham on Saturday,' said the champion trainer.

'In hindsight I wish I hadn't run him at Ascot last time ? looking back I don't think it was such a good idea to go over hurdles, but he didn't have too many options over Christmas.

'He just didn't run any kind of race that day, but this has been his target ever since.

'He's fresh, well, and in good order. He's in decent form and the testing ground will definitely be in his favour.

'Saturday is a different day (to Wetherby) on a different track and we live in hope.

'Our Vic was very impressive at Wetherby, but our horse needed the run that day, and he was much more effective the next time at Newcastle. We are ready to take them all on.

'He's in the totesport Gold Cup, and with his rating there is not much else for him to go for, as he hasn't got an entry in the Aintree National.

'It's going to be a very tough race on Saturday, and I'm not confident, but Neptune Collonges is very well and the ground will suit, so you never know. Ruby Walsh will ride him.'

Exotic Dancer, winner of the boylesports.com and Paddy Power Gold Cups at the course earlier in the season, is also set to take part.

He bridged the gap from handicapping when finishing third in the King George VI Chase behind Kauto Star.

A strong challenge is expected from the Emerald Isle, headed by Charles Byrnes' dual Grade One-winning novice Cailin Alainn.

The eight-year-old mare has proved adaptable with regard to her best trip this season and won over three miles for the first time on her last start in the Powers Whiskey Novice Chase in December.

(C) PA Sport