Altior v Cyrname: who do racing's leading names fancy for Ascot's big clash?

Altior against Cyrname, it's the clash that has the racing world abuzz. Find out which way some of the sport's leading names are leaning as Britain's two top-rated chasers get set to do battle in the Christy 1965 Chase at Ascot

Robbie Power, jockey
I'd be on Altior. He's unbeaten over fences and a true champion.

Harry Fry, trainer
It's a fascinating clash but it's hard to get away from a horse who's won 19 races on the bounce. You don't win 19 races without coming up against other good horses so I'd go for Altior.

Bryony Frost, jockey
Well as it's my team, I'd rather be riding Cyrname! I'll have my fingers crossed but they're coming to Cyrname's stomping ground at the end of the day and my flag will be waving for him.

Joe Tizzard, assistant trainer to his father Colin
I'm a huge Altior fan and the way he stays in his two-mile races the step up in trip will be no problem for him. It is a close match but I think Altior is certainly the one to beat.

Steve Mellish, racing pundit
I'm edging towards Cyrname. Ascot suits him and I suspect he has been primed for this.

Tim Vaughan, trainer
If this clash doesn't put bums on seats we all need to pack it in because it's such an exciting race. I think Cyrname is a hell of a horse, who likes going right-handed but the one thing I love about Altior is that he always seems to do just enough. If Nicky Henderson has him on song, I still think he's the one to beat. He's beaten everything that's been thrown at him in the past.

Dickon White, Director for Jockey Club Racecourses’ North West Region
I'd be leaning towards Altior. I've got a real soft spot for the horse so I'd love him to run a massive race and prove he can stay.

Ian Bartlett, racecourse commentator
Altior. He has won his last 19 races, and keeps on doing it. I think the extra distance will help him.

Sam Twiston-Davies, jockey
I'm in Nicholls' camp so I have to be careful with what I say! I think Cyrname is a hell of a horse but Altior is seriously special and an absolute freak.

Evan Williams, trainer
It'll just be a joy to watch. I hope they both come back safe and sound. I don’t care who wins, I just want them to come back in one piece. It’s a joy to be there to watch them race against each other.

Barney Clifford: sides with Cyrname in the Christy 1965 ChaseCredit: Edward Whitaker

Barney Clifford, Kempton clerk of the course
Cyrname. I'm a big fan of both, but Cyrname has so much going for him. Nico [de Boinville] will have to control Altior's exuberance at this longer trip. That exuberance might just take its toll.

Richard Hoiles, racecourse commentator
Altior is the better horse, but Ascot is Cyrname's back yard and he will enjoy the conditions. It's a no-bet race for me.

Chris Stickels, clerk of the course at Ascot
It's a very hard call. I wouldn't really know which one to choose. Maybe Cyrname owing to his tremendous record here. I'm really looking forward to the race.

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