Ascot Chase: how to solve the great Cyrname conundrum

3.35 Ascot
Betfair Ascot Chase (Grade 1) | 2m5f | 5yo+ | ITV/SSR

Coming into this race last year it looked a simple puzzle to solve: if Cyrname turned up at his best at his beloved Ascot it would be a one-horse race. The course had become his backyard after three imperious displays there, but the Ascot king gave up his crown without any semblance of a fight and would have finished last of four but for a heavy fall at the last.

That debate is the same 12 months on: if Cyrname turns up at his best he will win. His three highest Racing Post Ratings of 178, 179 and 181, all achieved over course and distance, are upwards of 11lb better than his nearest market rival Master Tommytucker (best of 165) has achieved. Cyrname could run nearly a stone below form and still win.