Letheby And Christopher Chase Tips

With conditions at Cheltenham predicted to be pretty testing on Saturday, the stage is set for Our Vic to cement his Gold Cup credentials by landing the Letheby And Christopher Chase, for which Ladbrokes make the David Pipe-trained gelding the 2/1 marker leader. The son of Old Vic has been something of an enigma overall, in as much that his profile depicts that he is just as likely to run flat and bomb out, as he is to produce a sublime performance and run his rivals ragged. However, one thing is for sure, Our Vic is at the peak of his powers when fresh and, having had the best part of three months off the course since sluicing up in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby on October 28, he should be spot-on at the weekend. Indeed, Pipe reports the gelding to be in good order and one senses an air of quiet confidence emanating from the stable with regard to their charge's prospects of capturing this Grade 2 prize, which would be his third big-race victory at Prestbury Park. It would appear that the unique undulations of this track suit Our Vic, who is a strong galloping type. The nine-year-old looked better than ever when trouncing Neptune Collonges and co by upwards of seven lengths in the Charlie Hall. A reproduction of that convincing display would be more than sufficient in this contest. Paul Nicholls has indicated that Neptune Collonges was probably in need of the race that day. The grey went on to land the Rehearsal Chase subsequently but, in his most recent start, which was over hurdles, he ran poorly. Furthermore, he will actually be 8lb worse off with the selection on Saturday compared to when they met at Wetherby. As such, with Exotic Dancer likely to be rerouted for a tilt at the Ladbrokes Trophy Chase on the same card, Alan King's progressive Halcon Genelardais looks poised to emerge as the chief threat to Our Vic. The seven-year-old appeared to have a good deal left in the locker when beating Mon Mome by four lengths in the Welsh National at Chepstow over the Christmas period. His stamina and appreciation of plenty of give underfoot will stand him in good stead. But while he's open to improvement, I'm not sure that he is up Our Vic standard just yet. Although she's a novice, don't discount Irish raider Cailin Alainn. Charles Byrnes' charge jumps for fun, relishes testing conditions and is unlikely to be found wanting for stamina. Add to this the fact that she is receiving weight all round and you simply have to respect her. I would be surprised if the eight-year-old doesn't reach the frame. Verdict - 2pts Our Vic @ 2/1 (Ladbrokes)