Sprinter Sacre outclassed the opposition in the Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham

Sprinter Sacre: A facile winner

Sprinter Sacre outclassed the opposition once again when taking the rearranged Grade One Victor Chandler Chase at Cheltenham.

Nicky Henderson's hugely exciting chaser was sent off at the prohibitive price of 1/5 and those who took the odds never had a moment's worry as he made it seven from seven over fences.

Mad Moose was kicked into an early advantage of around 20 lengths, with Sanctuaire anchored in rear, but the favourite had smoothly closed the gap as the field went out into the country.

Jumping well throughout the Queen Mother Champion Chase favourite freewheeled down the hill to open up a lead of around eight lengths.

Barry Geraghty was keen to hold onto him, however, and the chasing pack, led by Somersby, were only about five lengths adrift at the second last but the favourite was foot-perfect at that obstacle and again at the last.

Geraghty let out an inch of rein having jumped the last and he fairly sprinted clear, still on the bridle, to score by 14 lengths from the rallying Mad Moose.

Geraghty said: "He's so natural, he's one of the most natural I've ridden. I was afraid of the ground and didn't think it would suit him as well. He was very relaxed today, he jumped brilliant and I never had a moment's concern. He was very good.

"He coped with that (heavy) ground so well. I've not sat on him since the Tingle creek and when I got up on him in the parade ring I remembered why I love him so much. He's just unbelievable to get on.

"It's so easy for him, he travelled so easy, he jumped so well. He's all class."

Sprinter Sacre is now 2/7 with Sky Bet for glory at Cheltenham in March.Henderson said: "I'm glad it's over. I had reservations about running, but we had to run. Barry was worried about the ground, I was worried he was a bit fresh.

"He can handle any ground, I think, and that's what a good horse should be able to do. I said to Barry before the race if you do make five lengths in the air then there is point giving it back.

"Barry's confidence in him is unbelievable. He knows you can jump anything with him. He's such a gorgeous horse to look at, you would think he would be something special. He knows he is special and I suppose we are all starting to believe he might be."