Road to Cheltenham: Cheekpieces not ruled out for Altior

Despite his excellent record at the showpiece meeting, Altior will return to the Cotswolds as an underdog next month

Trainer Nicky Henderson with Altior during a pre-Cheltenham Press Day at Henderson’s yard at Seven Barrows, Lambourn yesterday. Picture: PA

Nicky Henderson has raised the possibility of Altior being fitted with headgear for the first time to aid his bid for a third victory in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham.

The 11-year-old is unbeaten in four previous appearances at the Festival, having won the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the Arkle Trophy and back-to-back runnings of the Champion Chase.