Templegate’s pinstickers’ guide to the runners and riders for the Betdaq Handicap Chase at Kempton racecourse this Saturday, February 24

IT’S time for Dee in the Betdaq Handicap Chase (3.35) at Kempton.

MASTER DEE has been incredibly consistent. He’s not been out of the first three in 11 races over fences.

The drying ground will suit Fergal O’Brien’s ace and he’s been freshened up since a nice effort in November.

THEATRE GUIDE 3/5

Decent Guide. Won this in 2016 and good third last year. Bit off more than he could chew in the Cotswold Chase but another bold show expected.

GO CONQUER 3/5

Con trick. Blundered away his chance last time but his jumping was good when winning at Ascot. Won’t be easy to dominate today but will make them go if he does.

JOSSES HILL 2/5

Over the Hill. Mostly struggled in graded races in the last 12 months. Steps up to three miles for the first time and his jumping is just not quick enough.

ART MAURESQUE 3/5

ACTING LASS 4/5

Class Act. Unbeaten after three chase starts. All those wins came in handicaps and she moves like a smart mare. The likely strong pace will put her under pressure but she’s certainly a player.

AS DE MEE 2/5

No Mee time. Should like the better ground and relatively unexposed over three miles. I’m not sure the demands of this race will suit and he’s hardly well weighted.

LABEL DES OBEAUX 2/5

Unfashionable Label. In great form this time last year and his Ayr win gives him a chance. Not so good this term and needs a real resurgence.

VIBRATO VALTAT 2/5

Bit of old Tat. Not found winning easy in the last couple of years. Surprisingly proved he stays this far when runner-up at Doncaster but put in place last time.

MASTER DEE 5/5

Big Dee. I’m nuts about Fergal O’Brien’s hope. He’s incredibly consistent and will love the ground conditions. Completely unexposed over three miles and is a fresh horse.

LOOSE CHIPS 3/5

Dip into Chips. His course record of four wins from eight visits makes him interesting. Not beaten far at Sandown last time and could hit the frame.

TINTERN THEATRE 3/5

MONBEG CHARMER 1/5

Unlucky Charm. Jumps well and is relatively unexposed. But he likes to dominate and that won’t be easy today.

BALLYKAN 4/5

Kan do. Finished fifth in this 12 months ago and fourth the year before. Has slipped in the weights and ran much better last time. Must have an each-way chance.

THEATRE TERRITORY 4/5

Tory party. Has some good form since switching to fences this season. Well treated on his best efforts and should handle the step up in distance.