Henderson sticking with Newbury plan

Trainer Nicky Henderson has confirmed that Altior and Champ will both run at Newbury, even if Saturday’s high-profile card is rescheduled.

The Berkshire track is facing a battle if it is to stage the Betfair Super Saturday fixture this weekend, as several days of sub-zero temperatures have put the card at risk.

An inspection is due to take place at 8:30am on Friday and contingency plans have already been discussed if the card does fall victim to the weather, with one suggestion being that the entire meeting is rescheduled for a Sunday slot on February 21.

That is certainly something that Henderson would be in favour of, as he has earmarked the card as an opportunity for his stable-stars Altior and Champ to get a competitive run in ahead of their engagements at next month’s Cheltenham Festival.

“It’s fine by me (to change the date),” Henderson was quoted as saying by Sky Sports. “It’s the plan to run both Altior and Champ – they’ve got to have runs.

“We’re discussing everything with owners and things and it’s frustrating, but really nothing changes.”

Altior is scheduled to run in the Game Spirit Chase at Newbury as part of his preparations for a tilt at a third Queen Mother Champion Chase success at Cheltenham, while Champ is looking to underline his credentials for a Gold Cup run at the Festival by competing in the Denman Chase in Berkshire.