Protektorat all set for Betfair Chase as he bids to become fifth multiple winner of Grade One contest

Trainer Dan Skelton discusses Protektorat’s focus on defending the Betfair Chase crown later this month, emphasizing the significance of this Grade One jumps season opener. With notable winners like Kauto Star, Skelton, once part of the team behind Kauto Star’s victories, now a prominent trainer, looks forward to pursuing another win after his success with Protektorat in 2022.

In a recent Zoom call organized by The Jockey Club and Betfair, Skelton highlighted the importance of the Betfair Chase in the Jump racing calendar, expressing confidence in Protektorat’s readiness for the challenge.

Last year’s victory at Haydock Park solidifies Protektorat’s return, and Skelton’s training approach, starting back in July, focuses on maintaining the horse’s enthusiasm without compromising fitness. Skelton’s anticipation for the race remains high, supported by the horse’s condition and recent training on grass gallops, which plays a vital role in Protektorat’s preparation.

Skelton acknowledges the significance of returning to Haydock Park, guided by past success, with the Betfair making Protektorat the 6-5 favorite for the 3m 1f contest. Co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, who brings valuable insights from the world of sports, Protektorat’s team looks forward to the upcoming challenge.

The strategic training regimen and past triumphs serve as the foundation for Skelton’s optimism, focusing on repeating past success and leveraging the lessons learned from victories.