Princess Anne chasing Cheltenham handicap success with Chequered View

CF Roberts Electrical & Mechanical Services Mares' Handicap Chase | New | 2m4½f | 4yo+ | ITV4/RTV

There is royal interest in the first race covered by ITV4 at Cheltenham's two-day International meeting with Princess Anne represented by homebred Chequered View in the six-runner mares' handicap chase.

The six-year-old is on a career-high mark after landing two of her four starts in handicap chases this season for trainer Martin Keighley, including a three-length success at Fakenham last time.

"She's in the form of her life and a stiff two and a half miles around Cheltenham is sure to suit her," said Keighley. "We could not be happier with her and are hoping for another good run.

"It's great to have a runner here for Princess Anne. She's in Scotland this weekend so sadly she won't see the horse running but Zara Tindall is going to be at Cheltenham."

Key fact: Ms Parfois took this race in 2017 before a number of big engagements, including when second to Terrefort in the Grade 1 Mildmay Novices' Chase at Aintree.

Harry Fry is represented by Definitelyanoscar, who finished clear of rivals Molly Carew and Skewiff when second in another Challenger Mares' Chase Series qualifier at Kempton last month.

Her trainer said: "She ran in a similar race last time and has been very consistent for us – we don't want too much rain for her."

Parlour Maid was successful at Lingfield last monthCredit: Mark Cranham (racingpost.com/photos)

While the six-year-old has yet to get her head in front over fences, Parlour Maid is a more experienced campaigner, with wins including a two-and-a-quarter-length success at Lingfield last time.

Her trainer Richard Hawker believes a wind operation in the summer has made all the difference for Parlour Maid.

"I feel the ground may be a bit heavy but we'll have to see how it is in the morning," he said. "She's a consistent mare but she'll have to be good as it's a competitive race."

What they say

Neil Mulholland, trainer of Molly Carew
I was happy with her return after a 205-day break at Kempton last time – she possibly needed the run. She's only seven so there's plenty of room for improvement. The trip and ground should suit.

Evan Williams, trainer of Skewiff
She's not straightforward so I was delighted with a clear round last time. She benefited from the switch back to fences and can improve again.

David Jeffreys, trainer of Zara Hope
She's turning out quickly after winning at Market Rasen so anything is a bonus. She's not been the easiest to train but has come out of the race well and we're hopeful of a good performance.

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