ALTIOR will become one of the most remarkable horses Nicky Henderson has ever seen if he conquers Cyrname in Saturdays big Ascot clash.
The top rated chasers in Britain are set to go into battle in the Christy Chase in an early season tear up.
Altior is as short as 8-11 for Saturday’s race
And Henderson admits he is nervous, but excited as Altiors King George hopes could rest on how he fares.
He said: They were always coming here and so we were, and neither of us are shirkers of battles!
The timing of this race is perfect and theres no point avoiding one horse. Weve got to take it on and its lovely youve got two horses like this and people building it up so much.
Its what the sport needs and is great for racing.
The bookies have Altior as favourite, but the handicapper officially has Paul Nicholls’ star rated a pound higher.
It is perfectly set up as Altior steps up to two miles and five furlongs for the first time, putting his unbeaten run of 19 on the line.
Henderson added: The distance is obviously in the back of our minds but this is the race to tell us more.
If he can prove himself up at this trip and stay unbeaten he is just one of the most remarkable horses Ive ever seen.
If youd seen him work on Friday you would think were mad for stepping him up in trip here and this wont be easy whatsoever.
Its a big ask because were up in trip, its not just a little step up. I still say he doesnt look like hes a horse that will stay as hes just got so much speed and his jumping is so slick.
Altior is entered in the Betfair Chase on the same day but any talk of Haydock has been shelved.
Henderson joked: Ive never done any good in that race and Paul always seems to win it. I dont know why he cant take Cyrname there!
The Betfair was only in case there was an earthquake or something at Ascot.
Earthquake or no earthquake, its set to be a royal rumble at Ascot on Saturday.
