Racing: Flagship set for Sandown date

Flagship Uberalles is thriving at home as he prepares to run at Sandown later this month and trainer Philip Hobbs believes his Queen Mother Champion Chase winner may well improve on his Festival form.

The eight-year-old is set to return against old rival Edredon Bleu in the £75,000 (€122,000) attheraces.co.uk ‘Today’s Best Bet’ Chase at Sandown on April 27.

Hobbs said: ‘‘Flagship Uberalles has been in great form since the Champion Chase and although he had a hard race he was fine within 24 hours.

‘‘He jumped brilliantly when landing the Tingle Creek at Sandown - but he didn’t jump so well at Cheltenham.

‘‘I think Sandown suits him better, so he may well show improvement for that reason. He stays very well and he’s a horse that seems to run best once he’s off the bridle.’’