The pair had it between them on the home turn but Geraghty always seemed to have Well Chief’s measure and eventually beat him by three and three-quarter lengths.

Henderson said: “It was a good performance and a great ride from Barry as there was always going to be a lot of pace and he did very well to curtail him.

“We have always thought two and a half was his trip and he probably wants it. Barry thinks the race at Aintree (Melling Chase) would be perfect.

“He’ll be entered for the Champion Chase but I wouldn’t think he would go.”

Petit Robin was cut from 25s to 10/1 for the Queen Mother Champion Chase by Stan James after his victory in the Grade 2 Desert Orchid Chase at Kempton Park.

Petit Robin – defeated Well Chief.

Runner up Well Chief was eased from 12s to 14s for the 2m Festival highlight.

Queen Mother Champion Chase 2010 ~ Outright Ante post, (place terms: 1/4 the first 3)

6-4 Master Minded
6 Twist Magic
7 Kalahari King
8 Big Zeb
10 Forpadydeplasterer
10 Petit Robin (from 25s)
14 Well Chief (from 12s)
14 Barker
14 Golden Silver (1st show)
25 Planet Of Sound
33 Tidal Bay
50 Chapoturgeon
50 Made In Taipan

Cheltenham Festival News from Racing Diary