Is Denman part of Golden Generation?

General / Editor / 02 December 2007 / Leave a Comment

Timeform place Denman second in the chaser rankings

TIMEFORM were mightily impressed but they still believe Denman, [3.25] favourite for the Cheltenham Gold Cup on Betfair, has 8lb to find with a peak-form Kauto Star.

Timeform spokesman Kieran Packman explained: "Our handicappers have given Denman a provisional new rating of 176p following his eleven-length romp in the Hennessy. This elevates him to second in the chaser rankings behind reigning champion Kauto Star (TF 184), and a pound ahead of Exotic Dancer (TF 175).

"Denman was imperious at Newbury, giving another improver in Dream Alliance a 28lb beating, in the process putting up the best Hennessy performance of the last decade. The impression created on Saturday was similar to that which his stablemate Kauto Star left when he won the Old Roan Chase last Autumn.

"Given the nature of the victory and his trainer's comments about his fitness, there could well be even more to come from him, hence why the 'p' has been maintained.

"Along with Kauto Star and Exotic Dancer, it's fair to say that Denman may prove part of an exceptional generation of staying chasers, who could compare with the two-mile chasing division of a few years ago (Moscow Flyer, Azertyuiop, Well Chief) or even the revered hurdlers of the '70s (Sea Pigeon, Night Nurse, Monksfield). Indeed, the trio are already rated at least half a stone higher than any other chaser in training.

"Like everyone else in racing, we are just hoping all three can make it to Cheltenham in March at the top of their game."

To win the Cheltenham Gold Cup: [3.25] Denman, [3.65] Kauto Star, [11.0] Exotic Dancer, [17.0] My Way De Solzen, [30.0] Star De Mohaison, [34.0] Aces Four, [44.0] Kicking King, War Of Attrition

Timeform Top Ten Chasers

Kauto Star 184
Denman 176p
Exotic Dancer 175
Our Vic 168$
The Listener 168
Well Chief 167+
Beef Or Salmon 167x
Racing Demon 166
War of Attrition 165
Nickname 164