Champion trainer Nicky Henderson has revealed he can't wait for the highly anticipated clash between star chasers Altior and Douvan.
Unbeaten in six starts over fences, he rose right to the very top of the chasing ranks winning three Grade One prizes including the Arkle and Celebration Chase.
He is being primed for the Champion Chase in March, but is expected to start off in next month's Tingle Creek at Sandown.
"He's only just started his faster work as there is still three weeks to go," said the champion trainer.
"We are where we want to be, he's totally on target for the Tingle Creek.
"I suppose there's the Shloer this weekend he could have gone for, but for me it's too close to the Tingle Creek. So, it fits in well but it means we are starting in a Grade One."
Douvan is searching for a third Festival winner after winning the Supreme (2015) and Arkle (2016)
Eight-time Grade One Douvan lost his unbeaten record when found lame in the Champion Chase.
Eight-time Grade One Douvan lost his unbeaten record when found lame in the Champion Chase.
He is set to make his return in the coming weeks, with a target to dethrone the excellent Altior.
"I was speaking to Rich Ricci the other day and he said both Douvan and Faugheen are in great shape and the Douvan and Altior match will be in March.
"Hopefully we all get there in one piece, but that is the big if as these horses are so delicate. I hope the meeting is in March as it will be one to savour.
"At the beginning of last season Douvan looked like the next Sprinter Sacre, he was unbeatable at the time. I know he had a wobble but he'll be back, I'm sure.
"We'll go down our road, they can go down theirs and let's hope the clash takes place."
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