Timeform Daily: Argento Chase, Saturday, Cheltenham 14:35

Race of the Day / Timeform / 28 January 2012 / Leave a Comment

Nick Williams' Diamond Harry (left).

"Captain Chris and Diamond Harry have the best form on offer, and with doubts about the stamina of the former, Diamond Harry can notch up his third Cheltenham victory."

Timeform run the rule over what could prove a Festival pointer in the Grade 2 Argento Chase at Cheltenham.

Diamond Harry produced a top-class performance when winning Hennessy sole start last season. Travelled well before tiring late when fourth in Betfair Chase on return and repeat dose will see him go close.

Little Josh won his first 2 starts last season, putting up bold display from the front in Paddy Power Gold Cup. Probably just falls short at this level, though, and faces stiffish task returning from a year off.

Midnight Chase is a front runner who progressed well last term, landing 4 handicaps prior to good fifth in Cheltenham Gold Cup. Encouraging third in Rowland Meyrick last month and place contender.

Time For Rupert was a top-class hurdler who returned to winning ways over fences in slowly-run 3m chase at Newbury last month, making all. This will demand more but he'll be staying on long after others have faded.

Captain Chris is last season's Arkle winner who has improved again this term, finishing third, albeit readily held by Kauto Star and Long Run, in the King George. Not sure to benefit from this stiffer test.

Any Currency is a thorough stayer who hasn't seen much action since last success in November 2009. Not at best this season and looks out of his depth in this field.

Knockara Beau has plenty of solid efforts in handicap chases to his name, runner-up over C&D in December, but form falls short of what will be required and not the safest of jumpers.

The Sawyer is a sure-footed front runner who goes well at Ascot. A while since he last won, and recent efforts suggest he won't be doing so in this grade.

Tidal Bay's quirks were typically evident on return over hurdles on New Year's Day for new yard, but doubtless he's capable of a good showing if on one of his 'going' days and was second in this last year.

Timeform 1-2-3
1. Diamond Harry
2. Tidal Bay
3. Time For Rupert

Timeform Verdict Captain Chris and Diamond Harry have the best form on offer, and with doubts about the stamina of the former, Diamond Harry can notch up his third Cheltenham victory. Tidal Bay could repeat last year's second if in the mood, while Time For Rupert could also make his presence felt.

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Timeform's Horses to Follow Extra Festival Trials edition is out now and features no less than five big-race previews and an interview with Nigel Twiston-Davies.