The race is a Grade 3 steeplechase run over 3m5 1/2f that features the true stayers, many of whom have lofty ambitions for the Grand National at Aintree. With 20 forecast runners, I’m looking for a plodder who’ll revel in the soft ground and will hopefully fill in one of the 4 places offered by the UK bookmakers. Let’s have a look at the top of the betting to see if any of them are worthy of our hard-earned cash.

11/2 Nenuphar Collonges

Is in great form and has been ‘crying out’ for a test of stamina. Won a Grade 1 at the Festival and I have made no secret before on this blog that I am happy for Choc Thornton to carry my money to victory. He’ll carry 10-6 which may be too much.

6/1 Mon Mome

I’m really interested in this one for Venetia Williams as he is well in the weights according to the figures after his recent win at the Boylesports Cheltenham meeting. He battled on well to beat Star de Mohaison that day and came 10th in the 2008 National behind Comply or Die. The jockey claims 3lb, so this looks like a decent bet going by the form.

9/1 High Chimes

Kept on well in the Hennessy, which should see him in good nick for this test. The current mark is a bit of a concern, but I was at Ascot last Friday to see Deep Purple win a promising chase for the same trainer-jockey combo. Will love the ground and should be considered.

10/1 Officier de Reserve

The Pricewise antepost selection is one for the Nicholls-Walsh team. I told you how there were doubts emerging about the recent performance of the Paul Nicholls yard, but Kauto Star and Nozic both hosed up on Boxing Day. This horse looks unexposed, but I don’t think it’s up to this test.

10/1 Notre Pere

Stays well on the ground but isn’t on an ideal mark, meaning that I’m looking elsewhere. Was a creditable 3rd in the Irish National this year.

10/1 Halcon Genelardais

2006 winner will be partnered again by Wayne Hutchinson. Top weight is a huge burden but he didn’t seem to mind too much when losing the 2007 edition by a head, when he arguably would’ve won had it not been for a mistake at the last fence. 10/1 is a great price for a horse that was 4th in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

13/1 Miko De Beauchene

Won it last year but to be honest I’d rather be on Halcon because Miko will be 17lb worse off this time. Could grab a place at best.

Of those running at big prices I like Cornish Sett at 33/1 – partnered by the capable Nick Scholfield who claims 5lb. The horse ran well in the National this year until the final few fences and won a decent race at Wincanton last time out.

Recommendation:

1pt win 6/1 Mon Mome

1pt each way 33/1 Cornish Sett

Welsh National Betting

Lexus Chase (Sunday)