The Opinions Surrounding the Champion Chase

Quality Shines Through at Ladbrokes Champion Chase

The rearranged Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal promises an intriguing battle between some of the top names in horse racing. With a focus on quality over quantity, Gordon Elliott has fearlessly entered two of his star horses into the line-up.

Gerri Colombe, with only one career defeat to his name, suffered a narrow loss to The Real Whacker in the Brown Advisory at Cheltenham last March. However, he has passed every other test thrown his way, including a convincing victory in the Mildmay at Aintree.

Returning for this season’s campaign at Down Royal, Gerri Colombe looks strong and is in good form according to Elliott. While not flashy during work sessions, he proves himself as a typical big and staying chaser – qualities that make him a formidable contender.

Conflated, owned by Gigginstown House Stud and trained by Elliott as well, also boasts Grade One success from last season when he claimed victory in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown. Although finishing third behind Galopin Des Champs in the Cheltenham Gold Cup earlier this year was disappointing for Conflated’s connections, they believe that their runner will benefit greatly from his recent outing at Punchestown.

Elliott explained: “Conflated needed that run badly. He had been delayed due to setbacks but I expect him to show significant improvement now that he has gained fitness.”

A Battle Between De Bromhead’s Runners

Henry de Bromhead will also field two strong contenders – Envoi Allen and Minella Indo. Minella Indo already showcased great form with a victory at Punchestown while Envoi Allen aims to bounce back after a third-place finish in the PWC Champion Chase at Gowran Park.

Richard Thompson, representing owners Cheveley Park Stud, expressed confidence in Envoi Allen’s abilities despite his recent disappointment. With an impressive track record of eight Grade One wins and three Cheltenham victories to his name, Envoi Allen remains a remarkable horse.

In regards to Minella Indo, de Bromhead is hopeful for another strong performance following the gelding’s success at Punchestown. Having only had a few runs last season, including winning the 2021 Gold Cup at Cheltenham, Minella Indo aims to continue impressing on the track.

A Bright Future for Down Royal

The Ladbrokes Champion Chase promises an exciting clash between top horses from various stables. While Gerri Colombe and Conflated represent Elliott’s formidable team, De Bromhead puts forward two strong contenders in Envoi Allen and Minella Indo. As race day approaches at Down Royal, anticipation builds as spectators eagerly await this thrilling event.