Honour primed for Classic performance

Philip Hobbs hopes Richard Johnson has Weetabix for his breakfast on Saturday morning ahead of a tilt at Warwick’s totesport Classic Chase with Double Honour.

The eight-year-old grey finally got his head in front at Haydock last time out when holding off Artic Jack to end a 12-race winless streak, with his rider having been hard at work from a long way out.

“He’s fine at the moment. He went up a few pounds for his last win but you would expect that,” Hobbs said.

“He’s such an admirable sort as he keeps his form and he just loves these long-distance chases.

“He likes Warwick as he can get into a rhythm and he was placed in the race last year (third).

“I just hope Richard Johnson has his Weetabix because he might take some riding!”

Another horse who will be doing his best work in the closing stages is the Alan King-trained Crystal d’Ainay, who will have the benefit of a visor.

“The extended trip should suit him but there is no reason why he should be needing it. He has been doing his best work in the latter stages of his races over fences though,” the Barbury Castle handler said.

“We will put a visor on him tomorrow just to sharpen him hope in the hope he doesn’t get too far behind. But his jumping has been fine.

“He is very well in compared to his hurdle mark so this looks like the best option.”