David Jennings' Expert Preview and Tip Ahead Of Friday At Cheltenham

What's the big story?

It's Jonbon time. There is no shortage of subscribers to the theory that he just doesn't like Cheltenham, an argument fuelled by the fact that he has never won an Arkle nor a Champion Chase, and getting beaten at 1-4 by Elixir De Nutz on his last visit to the venue in January certainly strengthens their case.

But, Jonbon doubters, answer me this: why was he so sexy in last year's Shloer? He didn't look like a horse who hated the track that day. He bounded clear of Edwardstone to score by just shy of ten lengths and had the race in the bag a long way from home. It was as emphatic as you could get.

Jonbon rounded off last season by winning the Melling Chase at Aintree and the Celebration Chase at Sandown, where he thumped El Fabiolo, and right here, right now, he is the horse they all have to beat in this division.

Expect a second Shloer Chase (2.20) success to kickstart a campaign that might just culminate in Champion Chase glory back at the festival in March. He's a proper horse and this is his season to prove it.

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So, does Jonbon win the Shloer (2.20) again?

Yes, of course he does. He hasn't convinced everybody, but he's convinced me. He is your 2025 Champion Chase winner, ladies and gentleman.

Jonbon14:20 Cheltenham

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Jky: Nico de Boinville Tnr: Nicky Henderson

What's the bet of the day?

It would have been Phantomofthepoints in the opener at Cheltenham, but he is now out so am I allowed to switch to Newcastle instead? Thank you. Imperial Merlin has drifted out 100-30 for the 2mf novices' handicap chase (1.20) and that looks terrific value in the four-runner heat.

He is a talented animal who we haven't seen the best of over fences yet. He's a half-brother to the prolific Secret Investor and expect him to make up for lost time over fences very soon, perhaps starting here. He looks by far the best handicapped horse in the race and is the best bet anywhere on Friday.

Imperial Merlin13:20 Newcastle

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Jky: Craig Nichol Tnr: John & Sean Quinn

What is the lay of the day?

Hyland. There are only four runners in the Listed Mucking Brilliant Paddy Power Novices' Chase (1.45), but I'm very surprised there is not a bigger gap between him and Springwell Bay in the betting.

Just a pound separates them on ratings, and the O'Neill representative has to give him 2lb, but Springwell Bay is a seriously smart animal who wouldn't look out of place in the Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton over Christmas. Hyland would.

Any outsiders catch the eye?

I wouldn't put you off having a small few quid on Bright Legend each-way at 22-1 in the concluding novices' handicap hurdle (4.00). He's fit from the Flat, and led them for a long way in the Fred Winter back in March. Josh Williamson takes off a handy 7lb as well.

Bright Legend16:00 Cheltenham

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Jky: Mr J H Williamson (7lb)Tnr: Denis Gerard Hogan

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Read more previews:

Harry Wilson fired in four winners in his last column - find out his fancies for day one at Cheltenham

Paul Kealy's play of the day at Cheltenham

2.20 Cheltenham: 'I respect the others enormously' - analysis and quotes for Jonbon's Shloer Chase return

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