Aupcharlie has staying credentials to keep the Jewson an Irish benefit

The Jewson is still in its infancy as a non-handicap contest, with two just two runnings taking place since it’s elevation to Grade 2 status. As a result, trends to help us deduce the likely winners are thin on the ground.

Beyond the fact that they were both trained in Ireland, a common trait shared by 2011 and 2012 winners Noble Prince and Sir Des Champs is the fact that they’d never finished out of the first two in a race over distances between 2m3f and 2m5f, with multiple wins at intermediate distances over hurdles or fences.

Amongst the Irish raiders are Argocat and Aupcharlie – both of whom are unbeaten in two runs close to 2m4f.

The latter has been caught within sight of the line over 3m in Grade 1 company on his last two outings and should be a strong stayer over the 2m4f Jewson trip over Cheltenham’s demanding course.

Two of his three career wins have come over 2m4f with his sole chase spin over the distance producing the Willie Mullins inmate’s biggest winning margin to date.

Now that David Pipe is aiming Dynaste at the race his opposition’s task will be that much harder, with the Pond House grey rated 6lbs superior of his nearest potential rival by the handicapper and he’s just 7/4 for victory.

A course and distance winner back in November, there can be no doubt that he’ll see out the trip well at the Festival.