Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Politologue can show class in big Ascot test
POLITOLOGUE can cement his position as Britain’s top two-mile chaser with a win in Ascot’s Clarence House Chase.
Despite the ten-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 nineand-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 career-high mark of 169.
Last year’s winner 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.
Roksana appears a similarly outstanding candidate in the Matchbook Betting Podcast Mares’ Hurdle. Dan Skelton’s charge did not really hit her stride last term, but two runs this season have shown she has not lost her ability – with a comprehensive victory over Next
Destination at Wetherby setting her up nicely for the Long Walk at this track last month.
Paisley Park and Thyme Hill proved too good that day, but there was no shame in Roksana’s two-length defeat against the two best staying hurdlers in training.
At Haydock, many will be keen to support impressive Kempton winner – and subsequent Gold Cup entry – Royale Pagaille, in the feature Peter Marsh Handicap Chase, but Sam Brown has plenty going for him on ground which will suit.