Fresh from his dominant victory in the Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby, The Real Whacker leads a competitive field of nine contenders in the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday.
Patrick Neville’s star chaser, unbeaten during his novice campaign two seasons ago—including a memorable Cheltenham Festival triumph over Gerri Colombe—looks to solidify his resurgence after a mixed open-company debut last term. Despite setbacks, including an unseating in the Kerry National in September, The Real Whacker returned to form with an impressive front-running display under Brian Hughes at Wetherby.
Trainer Patrick Neville is optimistic heading into the weekend. “He’s in great form and came out of the Charlie Hall well. We’re going there all guns blazing,” said Neville. “It’s a strong race, but he’s back to himself, and that’s the main thing.”
The forecasted heavy rain could play a role, with Haydock’s ground currently listed as good, good to soft in places, but set to soften with up to 11mm of rain expected on Saturday.
Other notable entries include Hewick, Shark Hanlon’s King George VI Chase winner, and Ahoy Senor, representing Lucinda Russell. Dan Skelton’s Cheltenham Festival winner Grey Dawning makes his seasonal debut, while Willie Mullins supplements Capodanno alongside Gavin Cromwell’s Limerick Lace.
The French challenger, Gold Tweet, trained by Gabriel Leenders, adds international intrigue to the contest.
Clerk of the course Dan Cooper expects significant changes to the track conditions. “We’ve had snow earlier this week, but with rising temperatures and rain forecast, I anticipate the going will shift,” said Cooper. “The track will absorb the rain well since it hasn’t been raced on yet, but conditions will definitely soften.”
With a top-class field and testing weather conditions, the Betfair Chase promises to be a thrilling spectacle as The Real Whacker looks to cement his place among the season’s leading chasers.