Dave Nevison's top tips for day two of the 2020 Cheltenham Festival

There is another fantastic day in store at the Cheltenham Festival on Wednesday, although it is a shame to see Altior taken out of the Champion Chase as we were set for a fascinating clash between Nicky Henderson’s superstar, Defi Du Seuil and Chacun Pour Soi.

I think Envoi Allen is one of the most exciting novices I have ever seen but will decide upon a bet after I assess my financial situation after day one!

It is difficult to know why the public have not warmed to this horse who is extremely well named in my view, and this is his chance to finally win people over.

He got beat in the Ballymore at the Festival last season but still ran a cracker, and definitely would have lost a few friends last time when falling at the second last when looking certain to win the Dipper on New Year’s Day.

He jumps economically and, apart from that blip, has impressed me on all of his starts. A scare at Newbury was down to his jockey and he will definitely not lose concentration here, so should be good enough to win.

It is hardly the bravest of calls going for Nicky Henderson to win this seriously tough handicap hurdle, but the profile of these two is so similar that I am happy backing both of them each-way.

Dame De Compagnie won well here and paid for a lot of Christmas’ in December having been very well backed. She was always going to come here rather than take on the very high-class mares and she could still be a few pounds in front of the handicapper, despite an 8lb rise.

Burrows Edge went back to hurdles after falling when going well over fences two outings ago. It proved a smart move as he won well under Nico De Boinville after being left clear at the last.

He only went up 6lb for that win, which looks reasonable. It seems as though the jockey who knows him well might have recommended headgear for him and, if it brings out any improvement, he will go close.

Blacko’s form received a nice boost on Monday as the horse he beat comfortably last time out won at Stratford.

Blacko is unbeaten in two races in this country - both under Tom Bellamy - and has impressed each time with his fast, accurate jumping.

He is certainly bred to be a good jumper and had two good runs in France before joining Alan King, so probably has the requisite experience to take on some useful juveniles, some of which have good Flat form.