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Cheltenham preview: Defi Du Seuil all set for Dipper challenge
By Racing TV
Last Updated: Thu 21 Dec 2023
Defi Du Seuil bids to continue his renaissance when he takes on four smart rivals in the Betbright Dipper Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day.
Things did not go right for the former unbeaten champion juvenile hurdler last term – but he got back on track on his second start over fences when getting off the mark in good style at Exeter.
The Philip Hobbs-trained gelding has to give 3lb to the opposition, but connections were buoyed his return to form.
Nico de Boinville gives us the latest news on On The Blind Side plus his other rides at Cheltenham on New Year's Day
“It’s a competitive-looking race. He came out of his last race very well and Philip is very happy with him,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus.
“We’re hoping for a good run. He’s got his jumping together quite well and hopefully he puts in a good round and we’ll see what happens.”
Black Op was third behind Defi Du Seuil at Exeter, although his trainer Tom George believes his horse has benefited greatly for his first run over fences and is looking forward to seeing him back in action.
“He’s in good form and the ground should suit him,” said the Slad handler.
Black Op (left) was a Grade One winner at Aintree in the spring
“He’s come on a lot for his run at Exeter. He’s done plenty of schooling since then, he’s ready to go and take the next step in his chasing career.
“It’s a nice race, but he’s a nice horse. You can make a case for any of them, really.”
On The Blind Side is the only one of the five runners yet to run over fences, and his trainer Nicky Henderson is keen to get the dual Grade Two scorer started.
“He jumps well at home, but has just taken his time to come to hand this season,” said the Seven Barrows handler.
“I am looking forward to running him – I don’t like throwing them in there against horses like Defi Du Seuil and Black Op, but we have got to get on with him.
On The Blind Side has been given a tough assignment for his chasing debut
“There was Haydock in heavy ground, but it was no thanks and Lingfield in heavy ground was no thanks as well. The distance is right and the ground is right.
“It is just about getting the run into him. This is all about clear rounds. Two and a half miles is perfect for him. We thought about going up to three, but I don’t think he wanted it.”
Colin Tizzard sends Lostintranslation into the fray after being placed behind the classy mare La Bague Au Roi on both his starts over the bigger obstacles.
The quintet is completed by Dan Skelton’s Crucial Role, who opened his fencing account at Uttoxeter three weeks ago.
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