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Newbury Chase: Heltenham Targets Third Straight Win

Sky Sports Champions League •
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The Weekend Winners panel analyzed Saturday's racing at Newbury, focusing on the BetVictor Home Of The Saturday Superboost Handicap Chase at 2.25pm. Kate Tracey, Declan Rix, and Sam Boswell discussed whether Dan Skelton's Heltenham can secure a third consecutive victory in the Berkshire feature race. The eight-year-old previously triumphed in 2023 and 2024, making him the horse to beat.

Declan Rix expressed concerns about ground conditions, suggesting Heltenham could be vulnerable if the track lacks sufficient watering. He highlighted Hercule De Seuil as an intriguing alternative, noting the JP McManus-owned gelding's promising debut for Neil Mulholland at Doncaster. Rix pointed to the handicapper's 3lb drop and return to two-and-a-half miles on better ground as potential advantages for the Irish import.

Sam Boswell backed Heltenham to deliver another strong performance, comparing the race to the horse's personal Gold Cup. The analyst praised Harry Skelton's return to the saddle and suggested Dan Skelton could be on course for another successful Saturday card. Kate Tracey emphasized Heltenham's improving ratings - from 123 to 136 to 140 - while acknowledging the horse's occasional jumping frailties linked to ground conditions.

The panel's consensus reveals a fascinating tactical battle between the defending champion and a field featuring Knapper Hill, Prairie Wolf, and Twinjets, with each-way punters hoping for a competitive eight-horse finish.