Adam Williams presents his prediction for the Cheltenham Unibet Middle Distance Chase Series Veterans' Handicap Chase (Qualifier, 2m4½f, 9yo+ 0-150) horse racing event.
Dashel Drasher finished third in his first race of this season at the 1965 Chase at Ascot. He also started there back in 2021, again placing third, before returning to hurdles, where he spent two years and claimed victory in the Long Distance Hurdle on 1 December last year. As for fences, although he didn't win his debut, he performed well and should feel confident in this field.
Shakem Up'arry has yet to start this season. He didn’t finish last season strongly, but his two victories at Cheltenham—the New Year's Day Handicap Chase and the TrustATrader Plate Handicap Chase—are encouraging. The 7/2 odds on bet365 present a good value for a win.
Eldorado Allen was the beaten favourite in the John Sumner Memorial Veterans' Handicap Chase on 21 November at Warwick. His best performance last season was a third place in the Gold Cup Handicap Chase in November. Nevertheless, he could be competitive, and the shorter distance should be beneficial for him.
Copperhead has made an excellent start to the season. He has already participated in three legs of the Stayers' Veterans' Chase Series, winning at Chepstow and Aintree, and finishing second at Sandown. His current form is impressive, and if it continues, he will be a formidable force. With odds of 7/1 on bet365, he's an appealing each-way bet.
Torn And Frayed won the race on 21 November, where Eldorado Allen finished second. He was also fifth behind Copperhead at Aintree. Cheltenham was his favourite racecourse last season, with five out of six starts there, albeit without a win. He shares the same rating and odds as Copperhead.
