Jockey Paul Townend believes Chacun Pour Soi showed why he's the favourite for the Champion Chase with his victory at Cork on Sunday.
The Willie Mullins-trained French raider was forced to miss last year's Cheltenham Festival due to a foot issue but gave a timely reminder of his talents on his first outing since February as he made it four wins out of five in Ireland by landing the Grade 2 Hilly Way Chase.
Sent off as the odds-on favourite, the eight-year-old didn't disappoint as he cruised to a 19-length victory with Darasso trailing him home as the only two finishers after Cash Back had wiped out Djingle at the last.
Bookies responded to Chacun Pour Soi's victory by cutting his odds for next year's Queen Mother Champion Chase to 11-4.
Townend, who gave up several lucrative rides at Punchestown to partner Chacun Pour Soi, says he see a bright future ahead of his mount if he maintains his current level.
“It was a great start for him,” the jockey told the Racing Post. “He was fairly asleep early on in the race and got a good blow into himself. He had the other two well beaten when they fell at the last and was entitled to win. Thankfully he did and it's good to get him back on the track.
“Touch wood, he's deadly over his fences ? I don't want to put the mockers on him. He's very good.
“The other two have to show their hands earlier with the way they race, he just had that bit of class. He took a good blow and I think he'll come on plenty for it.”
