Sprinter Sacre© Photo Healy Racing
Nicky Henderson is optimistic about the chances of Sprinter Sacre regaining the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase crown at next month's Cheltenham Festival.
Despite only finishing second on his comeback run in the Clarence House Chase at Ascot, the Seven Barrows handler feels satisfied with where he is with the nine-year old heading to Prestbury Park.
The Caroline Mould-owned gelding enjoyed his finest hour to date when securing the 2013 Champion Chase after demolishing his rivals in scintillating fashion by 19 lengths.
Henderson said: "The early parts were hard work and we were just waiting for that spark to come back. You can not force it to happen but we are as good as we have been for a very long time.
"We have had our one run and he has done a lot of work since and he is spot on.
"I am not saying he is what he was for two years as he was ridiculously unbeatable no matter what anybody threw at him.
"I am not confident but pretty optimistic and all has gone according to plan."
While pleased with the position he has Sprinter Sacre in ahead of his assignment at the Festival, Henderson was suitably impressed with the performance that reigning Champion Chase hero Sire De Grugy put in at Chepstow on Saturday.
Henderson said: "I was impressed with Sire De Grugy on Saturday as it was a great shout by Gary Moore and it paid off. It was a brave thing to do as I wouldn't have done that with Sprinter Sacre as the ground at Chepstow would have been far too soft.
"It will be a great race and one hell of a clash. They have got the crown that we want back."
