Silviniaco Conti better physically as Down Royal beckons

Senior chasers

Paul Nicholls’ solitary Grade 1 win over fences last season came courtesy of Silviniaco Conti in the Ascot Chase. While the ten-year-old’s best days may be behind him, he is still capable of high-class form and will bid for an eighth Grade 1 win over fences in the Champion Chase at Down Royal on November 5.

His trainer said: “Apart from when we had him right for Ascot, last season was an absolute nightmare. But he’s looking a lot better physically than he did this time last year, so we’ll get him spot-on for Down Royal and then form a plan for the rest of the season.”