A usually bullish Nigel Twiston-Davies knows he faces an uphill task to down the mighty Cyrname in Saturday’s Ascot Chase.
His Riders Onthe Storm is unbeaten since moving to his yard and sits second in the betting but comes up against his biggest challenge to date at Ascot.
Cyrname is the highest rated jumper in Britain and 8-15 favourite with race sponsors Betfair to make it back-to-back wins in the Grade 1.
But Riders Onthe Storm is two from two for Twiston-Davies and romped home over course and distance last time out to follow his impressive Aintree win.
However, the Cotswolds handler has urged caution as his horse steps up to the top table.
He told Sun Racing: “Well take our chance on Saturday at Ascot. Hes been a revelation since joining us from Ireland but we know where we stand on Saturday.
“If Cyrname turns up and runs like he can around Ascot then he should probably win. But you cant run from one horse, as I always say, and were still improving Id like to think.
“Sam [Twiston-Davies] will ride him again and why hes won twice on soft ground for me I dont think its the be all and end all with him.
“If Saturday goes to plan then well be taking in the Ryanair at the Festival.”
Riders Onthe Storm can be backed at 7-2 for Saturday’s race and is a general 7-1 shot for the Ryanair at Cheltenham Festival.
