Matchbook Clarence House Chase (Grade 1)

Off time: 15:35 | Winning time: 4m 6.10s

Altior²³

Age: 9| Weight: 11-7| J: N de Boinville| T: N J Henderson| OR: 175| C| D

1/8

Exceptional reigning 2m champion chaser unbeaten over fences or hurdles with a winning run of 16 races stretching way back to 2015. As close to unbeatable as is possible and expected to again show his brilliance with an eighth Grade One.

Form: 1/111-11

Diego Du Charmil^t²³

Age: 7| Weight: 11-7| J: H Cobden| T: P F Nicholls| OR: 156

16/1

Likable five-time winner beaten 16L by Altior last season and second to him latest at Kempton beaten 19L in receipt of weight which he isn't here. Fitness edge on Fox Norton so second is entirely possible.

Form: 2F15-52

Fox Norton³⁸⁹

Age: 9| Weight: 11-7| J: R M Power| T: C L Tizzard| OR: 167| D

15/2

Grade One winner over 2m and 2m4f but absent since 3m experiment failed with him pulled up in last season's King George. 13L second to Altior on only previous meeting and unlikely to close the gap given lengthy absence.

Form: 211/12P-

Forecasts

Altior (1/8), Fox Norton (15/2), Diego Du Charmil (16/1)

Much has been made of this Grade One race attracting just three runners but that is testament to the fact that ALTIOR has basically beaten all in front of him in the division and usually with the minimum of fuss. Nicky Henderson's superstar arguably hasn't received the credit he deserves with few yet considering him alongside his illustrious stablemate Sprinter Sacre for example but there is no doubt he is already a true great and he is expected to extend his winning run with ease. Fox Norton is smart in his own right and despite the layoff he should get second given he's rated 11lb better than Diego Du Charmil.