Talking Horses: Bristol De Mai can complete four-timer in Betfair Chase

Daryl Jacob admits it would be a remarkable feat if Bristol De Mai could register a record-equalling fourth win in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday. Photo: Healy Racing.

In theory, A Plus Tard should be a good thing in today’s Betfair Chase. Second to stablemate Minella Indo in the Cheltenham Gold Cup last March, Henry de Bromhead’s charge is clearly the most talented horse in the line-up and, as a seven-year-old, has scope for further improvement.

He will also have the assistance of Rachael Blackmore, a jockey who, as she illustrated at Cheltenham last week, can even make fallers win. Not that should be an issue with A Plus Tard. The Cheveley Park Stud-owned gelding has yet to hit the deck in 16 lifetime starts and, while not the most imposing of individuals, rarely makes even a semblance of a jumping error. He ticks most boxes and deserves his position at the head of the market.