Politologue the proven performer in field

P withOLITOLOGUE can cement his position as Britain’s best two-mile chaser victory in the Betting Exchange Clarence House Chase at Ascot.

Despite the 10-year-old being the reigning champion chaser, his profile does not currently match the likes of Altior, but he nevertheless remains the one to beat in this Grade One feature.

Politologue did not really shine in his first couple of starts last term, finishing behind the reopposing Defi Du Seuil in both the Shloer and Tingle Creek Chases. However, come the spring, he showed his festival rivals a clean pair of heels.

As Defi Du Seuil failed to fire, Politologue ended a losing run of more than a year, jumping for fun up front and powering up the Cheltenham hill for a nine and a half length verdict.

Politologue then doubled down on his seasonal bow, again making all for an effortless Tingle Creek verdict which has propelled him to his current careerhigh mark of 169.

Defending champion Defi Du Seuil would clearly be a threat if back on form, while Waiting Patiently also makes some appeal, but preference is for the proven performer.

DE FORGOTTEN ONE is seemingly on the upgrade and is the pick in the Matchbook Best Odds Handicap Chase.

After a fine third over

Cheltenham’s cross-country course, Richard Hobson’s runner showed he is equally at home over regulation obstacles when hacking up at Catterick.

SELECTIONS: ASCOT: 12.40

Tritonic, 1.15 Roksana, 1.50 Kateson, 2.25 De Forgotten One, 3.00 Jonniesofa, 3.35 POLITOLOGUE (NAP), 4.10 Jeremy Pass.

HAYDOCK: 12.55 Marown, 1.30 Nada To Prada, 2.05 Hijack, 2.40 Sam Brown, 3.15 Buveur D’air, 3.50 Black Pirate, 4.20 Nefyn Point. DOUBLE: Politologue and De Forgotten One.

Politologue: Backed for Ascot glory today.