4.05 2m. 5f. 19yds. 27 Declared. Randox Foxhunters' Open Hunters' Chase (National Course) (Class 2 ) of £50,000.00 6-y-o plus
1st - €24,155.00 2nd - €12,075.00 3rd - €6,045.00 4th - €3,020.00 5th - €1,510.00 6th - €750.00 7th - €380.00 8th - €190.00
Formscan - Cousin Pascal was a shock winner of this race back in 2021 and proved that the unexpected can happen over this unique course. However, WINGED LEADER, who appears to have been saved for this race, gets the vote. The nine-year-old looked set to be crowned champion of last year's Cheltenham Hunters' Chase but for being swallowed up in the dying strides. He arrives here on the back of three victories between the flags in Ireland and is likely to be spot on in his attempt to claim this contest. Famous Clermont's stamina appeared stretched by the extended 3m2f distance when weakening into sixth late on at Cheltenham last month and Chris Barber's inmate isn't taken lightly now dropped to 2m5f. Latenightpass boasts a fine record in the race, with last year's win under his belt and a fine second behind the aforementioned Cousin Pascal the season before. Tom Ellis' gelding is likely to be on the premises once more and can't be ruled out, while Fier Jaguen and Magic Saint make most appeal of the remainder.