JLT Novices Chase Preview

Published on: 16/03/2016

JLT Novices Chase Preview

March 17, 2016 13:30pm - Cheltenham

Cheltenham Festival

There are three main contenders in this race, with Bristol De Mai, Garde La Victoire and Outlander all expected to lead the betting come race day.

Bristol De Mai was beaten by Garde La Victoire in his first ever chase but has shown steady improvement, having won three out of four since including the Scilly Isles Novices Chase at Sandown back in February.

The Philip Hobbs-trained Garde La Victoire has won all three of his chases since October and has course and distance form under his saddle. He should just have the edge over Bristol De Mai once again.

Also in the mix is the Willie Mullins-trained Outlander who has thrived since making the switch to fences, and beat a good field at Leopardstown last time out. He will be well-backed to maintain his perfect chase record on Thursday.

Outside of those three, Black Hercules and L`Ami Serge would both prefer softer ground, while Zabana came in fourth behind Outlander in his last outing.

Betting odds and tips

In what is a competitive field, Outlander just gets the nod. The eight-year-old has shown the biggest improvement of the top three contenders since making the switch to fences.

He can be backed at 9/2 with Bet365.

Remember, Bet365 are offering guaranteed best odds on all Cheltenham races and a 100% deposit bonus up to £200 for new accounts.

JLT Novices Chase - Last three years:

2013: Benefficient (7) - Bryan Cooper (Tony Martin)

2014: Taquin du Seuil (7) - Tony McCoy (Jonjo O`Neill)

2015: Vautour (6) - Ruby Walsh (Willie Mullins)

By Neil Morris

Published on: 16/03/2016

Any odds displayed within this preview were correct at the time of publishing (16/03/2016 12:42:23) but are subject to change.