Master fine after Ascot romp

Master Minded is reported to be in fine shape after his brilliant victory in the Victor Chandler Chase at Ascot on Saturday.

The six-year-old confirmed his status as the top-rated chaser in Britain with another scintillating performance as he swept to a 16-length triumph over Petit Robin.

“He’s absolutely fine. It was brilliant, everything was right and we are looking forward to Cheltenham with him now,” said trainer Paul Nicholls.

The Ditcheat-based handler reiterated that Master Minded would complete his public preparation for back-to-back victories in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham in March with a run in the totepool Game Spirit Chase at Newbury on February 7.

“It’s Newbury next, all being well, that’s where he’ll go,” said Nicholls.

Master Minded is as low as 1-3 to become the first horse since Viking Flagship in 1995 to retain his title at Cheltenham.

Master Minded’s owner Clive Smith suffered a reverse when Free World could only finish third to Panjo Bere in the Montpelier Group Lightning Novices’ Chase, but Nicholls puts that down to the going being unsuitable.

“The ground was probably a bit testing for him. We’ll find better ground and easier track for him next time,” he added.

Free World has drifted to as big as 25-1 from 12-1 for the Irish Independent Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham following Saturday’s Ascot defeat.