Hughes hunting Chandler spoils

Dessie Hughes is keeping his fingers crossed that Saturday’s Ascot card beats the weather, with Schindlers Hunt set to take his chance in the Victor Chandler Chase.

The eight-year-old showed some high-class form in his novice season over fences, winning twice at the highest level including when running out an impressive winner of the Baileys Arkle Perpetual Challenge Cup at Leopardstown.

He ran a fine race to finish third in the Paddy Power Dial-A-Bet Chase on his latest outing and Hughes expects a bold show from his charge in Saturday’s Grade One event.

The trainer said: “Ascot is still the plan and he’s in very good form at the moment.

“Please God the meeting will be on and he gets a clear run and I’m sure he’ll go very close.”