The two-day Chepstow meeting has long been a highlight for horses that thrive after a break, and Francky Du Berlais looks primed to steal the show as the veterans' chase champion this season. Horses who do well fresh, like past winners Bob Ford, Vieux Lion Rouge, and Some Chaos, have all excelled in similar races, making Francky Du Berlais a strong contender.
Last year’s winner, Good Boy Bobby, is back to defend his title, boasting an impressive record after a break. With trainer Nigel Twiston-Davies in fine form, Good Boy Bobby remains the early favourite. However, with Francky Du Berlais' recent stunning performance at Market Rasen, his connections believe he could emerge as the true veterans' chase champion this year.
Joint trainer Michael Bowen, who has seen Francky Du Berlais grow into a formidable force, is optimistic about his chances. "He’s a legend for our yard, and he’s been brilliant all season. If he runs like he did in his last race, I believe he’ll be hard to beat," said Bowen. The 11-year-old veteran is in top form, and with 10 career wins under his belt, he is gunning for his 11th victory, aiming to cement his status as the veterans' chase champion at Chepstow.
Several other horses are also in contention, including Copperhead, who won in May but has been inconsistent in recent years. Enrico, another noteworthy runner, has shown promise but has struggled to finish strong in longer races. His trainer, Paul Nicholls, remains hopeful that Enrilo can deliver under new jockey Jay Tidball, especially after a drop in handicap marks.
Francky Du Berlais, however, stands out as the one to watch. His consistent form, coupled with the experience and determination of the Bowen family, makes him a leading candidate to claim the title of veterans' chase champion.
Veteran chasers often come with stories of resilience, and Francky Du Berlais is no exception. His strong work ethic, consistency, and the Bowens' unwavering belief in him make him a fan favourite. As the race approaches, all eyes will be on Francky Du Berlais to see if he can bring more glory to the Bowen yard and solidify his reputation as the veterans' chase champion.
