Shloer Chase tips: Simonsig a shout to roll back the years at Cheltenham

Shloer Chase tips: Side with Simonsig odds

Simonsig odds show that he is a major player in this year’s renewal of the Grade 2 Shloer Chase (13:55) at Cheltenham on Sunday, so backers will be hoping he can live up to his promise at The Open meeting.

Trainer Nicky Henderson has always held this race in high regard and used it as a launch pad for Sprinter Sacre to rejuvenate his career when coming home in front 12 months ago.

Somersby trotted over the line second that day, a full 14-lengths behind the victor, and it was Henderson’s second success in three years in this sphere, with Kid Cassidy kick-starting the run in 2013.

As for Simonsing, this 10-year-old grey gelding’s CV is one hampered by injury, but he is more than capable of winning this if proving back in shape. He arrives at Prestbury Park fresh and ready to do the business.

Plenty of bite left in the old dog

A dual Cheltenham Festival winner, following up the 2012 Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle with success in the Arkle 12 months later, Simonsig hinted at being back to his best when third in the Punchestown Champion Chase at the tail-end of last season, coming home behind God’s Own and Vautour.

That latest effort means Simonsig has never finished outside of the places in 11 career starts, and with eight wins included in that run, it never pays to write him off.

He looks well in at the weights for the Shloer Chase, which isn’t much of a surprise considering he’s not won in a while.