What they say on the Champion Chase: 'He looks fantastic and is best fresh'

John Hales, owner of Politologue
Everything is shaping up as planned. Paul [Nicholls] says he's been training very well and we're looking forward to seeing him out on the track again [at Ascot on Saturday]. I'm really excited. In past years we would have given him a rest, but Paul felt he should have a go at it as his prep for Cheltenham. The ground will hold no fears for him, he's a two-and-a-half miler with speed and stamina, and I'm sure he'll run a good race.

Dan Skelton, trainer of Nube Negra
I'm very happy with him, he looks fantastic. He'll go straight there, he's best fresh. You had to be extraordinarily happy with the result at Kempton. He's got to go and confirm it, but I have every reason to hope he will.

Alan King, trainer of Sceau Royal
Plans are undecided. I also put him in the Champion Hurdle. He's in good form and will head for the Kingwell if we decide to follow that route: otherwise, he'll be aimed at the Game Spirit and then the Queen Mother Champion Chase.