Sanctuaire earns confidence of the bookmakers for the Arkle Chase
Sanctuaire seems to have earned more confidence of the bookmakers, as he has been given a general starting price of 16 to 1 for the Arkle Chase at Cheltenham on Tuesday, March 13, 2012.
The six-year-old horse was initially not considered to make a solid impression at Cheltenham. However, his recent performance in the Charlie Company 40 Commando Royal Marines Novices’ Chase at Taunton on Tuesday, January 31 proved that he has the potential
to fight the top contenders.
Sanctuaire started the race with a starting price of 13 to 8, and was the favourite to win. He certainly lived up to his reputation and stormed to victory comfortably. There was simply no match for him in the event, which attracted only five entries.
This was the first ever chase race for the Paul Nicholls trained horse, and he did not disappoint at all. Other than that, he has also taken part in 13 hurdles, where he emerged victorious thrice.
Jockey, Ruby Walsh, partnered Sanctuaire in the Taunton chase and he was delighted with the outcome. He praised the speed of the horse and expected him to do well in future events.
After the race, the veteran jockey stated, “He went a good gallop. He jumped like a stag and won as he liked. Jumping was never an issue for him over hurdles. He was never stupid and always had respect. He jumped and gallop them into the ground today.”
Although winning at Taunton has earned some respect for Sanctuaire, it will not be an easy task for him to do well in the Arkle Chase, as there will be some fierce competition for him in the big event.
The most likely to prevail at Cheltenham is Nicky Henderson’s trained horse, Sprinter Sacre, who is yet to be defeated in the chase races. He has entered such events on two occasions, and was successful in both of them.
On the other hand, Peddlers Cross and Al Ferof are also likely to make an impression, considering their form and record in such events. Both horses have taken part in three chase races, and have won twice. This will make the competition more exciting
for the spectators and the bettors alike.
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