Cape Tribulation has been confirmed for the bet365 Charlie Hall Chase at Wetherby as he looks to build on fifth place in the Cheltenham Gold Cup.
The nine-year-old has only raced three times this year and kicked off proceedings with a triumph in the Argento Chase at Cheltenham back on January 26.
That success over Imperial Commander followed a Boxing Day victory at Wetherby in the 2012 Rowland Meyrick and preceded a creditable run at Cheltenham when trailing in behind winner Bobs Worth.
Cape Tribulation then disappointed by finishing fifth of eight in the Betfred Bowl Chase at Aintree in April and has not been seen since.
The son of Hernando has a liking for heavy ground and trainer Malcolm Jefferson feels a trip to Yorkshire is the perfect way for his charge to begin proceedings once again.
“He’ll start off in the Charlie Hall in a few weeks,” he said. “He looks well and is in very good order. The ground should be bang on for everyone after this rain.”
It looks set to be a competitive renewal at Wetherby this year, with the likes of dual King George VI Chase winner Long Run and December Gold Cup scorer Unioniste in contention for a run-out.
Jefferson hopes Cape Tribulation will be able to enjoy some success over the next 12 months and get another win under his belt.
“Hopefully we’ll have another good year with him and he’ll pick up a race somewhere along the line,” he added.
“Going back over hurdles is not something I’ve talked to his owner about, so we haven’t ruled that in or out.”
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