Accordion may skip Cheltenham

There could be a small field for the Letheby & Christopher Chase at Cheltenham on Saturday with An Accordion’s participation in some doubt.

Soft ground has already ruled Exotic Dancer and Barbers Shop out of the Grade Two contest with a few of the other entries holding alternative engagements also.

David Pipe’s An Accordion has not been seen since landing the William Hill Chase at the Cheltenham Festival in March.

“We entered An Accordion in the Letheby & Christopher but I would have to speak to the owners prior to deciding if he took his chance or not and the ground appears to be going against him at present,” said Pipe.

“He would be having his first run of the season in the race, but he’s in good order at the moment. The underfoot conditions would be the deciding factor as to whether he runs or not.”

Victor Chandler make Alan King’s stout stayer Halcon Genelardais their 2-1 favourite followed by Star De Mohaison at 5s and Nozic at 6s.