Betfair Chase: Timeform's runner-by-runner guide

Long Run is favourite for the Betfair Chase

Timeform take you through their thoughts on the Betfair Chase...

Cannington Brook landed a couple of handicaps in the mud here last winter. Never comfortable away from soft ground at Cheltenham/Aintree in the spring, but better than result at Ascot and the more rain the better.

Long Run capped his breakthrough season in 2010/11 with a 7-length victory in the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Things didn't quite go to plan last term (runner-up in this contest) but the one to beat if near his peak.

Silviniaco Conti is a high-class hurdler who can boast some very strong novice form over fences last season, and matched pick of those efforts when a ready winner of the Charlie Hall Chase. Scope for further progress.

The Giant Bolster has been bothered by poor jumping over fences, but everything came together when winning Grade 3 handicap at Cheltenham prior to a cracking runner-up effort in Gold Cup, confirming stamina for 3m.

Wayward Prince disappointed in a truncated 2011/12 campaign, but freshened up by a change of scenery when running as well as could be expected behind Silviniaco Conti in Charlie Hall. Tough task in this field.

Weird Al put up a top-class effort when making a winning return for this stable in last year's Charlie Hall before a cracking third in this contest. Fragile, and things didn't work out in Gold Cup or Grand National.

Timeform 1-2-3:
1. Long Run
2. Silviniaco Conti
3. Cannington Brook

Timeform verdict: The race revolves around 2011 Gold Cup winner Long Run to a large extent, and he'll take all the beating on reappearance if near the level he achieved last year. If he does happen to underperform, Silviniaco Conti looks best placed to take advantage, whilst Cannington Brook may outrun unflattering odds if conditions deteriorate further.