Arkle Chase

Named after the legendary jumper Arkle, this is one of the Grade 1 contests that unfold on the opening day of the Cheltenham Festival. Going 2m over twelve fences, this novice chase is a staging point for Notable Runners expected to play near the top level for most of their careers.

Recent Arkle Chase winners include Well Chief, Voy Por Ustedes, Tidal Bay, Forpadydeplasterer and Sizing Europe.

Notable Runners

Medermit– Alan King has pointed to this seven year-old as one of his best chances for festival glory. He trades among the favourites for this one and has run a respectable five-race campaign this season. He’ll be held up towards the back but looking to come on strong late in the race. More suited to chasing than he was to hurdling.

Finian’s Rainbow– Undefeated in his 2010/11 campaign, the Nicky Henderson-trained Irish-bred is flashing career-best numbers and looks to be a very talented chaser. He is a great story, emerging from the point-to-point circuit at Inch racecourse and he’ll be a leading contender for festival glory this year. He’ll look to go right to the front.

Mikael D’Haguenet– A cooler choice than the leading Notable Runners, this Willy Mullins-trained seven year-old had an indifferent season, going winless. He has won at Cheltenham over hurdles and will be a genuine threat if he finds his feet a bit better.