5.25 2m. 5 Declared. William Hill Champion S'chase (Grade 1) of €300,000.00 5-y-o plus
1st - €180,000.00 2nd - €60,000.00 3rd - €30,000.00 4th - €15,000.00 5th - €9,000.00 6th - €6,000.00
FormscanBy John O'Riordan - ENERGUMENE can repeat last years win in this contest, having also won the Queen Mother Champion Chase on his previous start. If anything, the Tony Bloom owned gelding was even more impressive at the festival this time round, travelling strongly throughout before easily disposing of his rivals. Granted a clear round, it is difficult to see the nine-year-old getting beat. Stablemate Gentleman De Mee could be the one to lay down the biggest threat. An all the way winner at Aintree last April, he was hugely impressive at the Dublin Racing Festival in February but was a late absentee from Cheltenham. When on song, he is one of the best two-mile chasers in training. Blue Lord can complete a clean sweep for trainer Willie Mullins by taking the third spot.
A steeplechase for five years old and upwardsWeights - 11st 12lbs Mares allowed 7lbs