Richard Hobson believes Docpickedme is in top condition as he prepares to defend his crown in the Virgin Bet Great Yorkshire Chase on Saturday.
The 10-year-old is aiming to become only the second double winner of Doncaster’s prestigious residential handicap, following in the footsteps of Ziga Boy, who won back-to-back renewals ahead of Alan King in 2016 and 2017.
The son of Getaway has been in good form this season, finishing third in the Rehearsal Chase at Newcastle before claiming a third win at Doncaster last month after five course visits, setting him up perfectly for his return to Town Moor this weekend.
“He’s ready to go. He did really well (winning the race last year). His form is rock solid,” Hobson said.
“It was a good race he won last time, he likes Doncaster and the horse is in good form.”
Last year’s Great Yorkshire Chase was still up for grabs approaching the final gate when Walking On Air crashed, clearly allowing Docpickedme to beat the favorite The Changing Man.
Hobson feels his leadership is at its best when he can dictate from the front, adding: “We’ll see how it works out, he loves bowling.
“He’s quite fast, isn’t he? He’s got a few gears and if you take him early doors you’re going too fast. He likes to get into that rhythm and bowl away.”
“He’s 10 years old now, so if he does well and wins at Doncaster he’ll have won two big pots this year. If a horse can do that, that’s great.”
Docpickedme is one of 13 confirmed for the £100,000 competition, with Nicky Henderson’s Hyland topping the list.
Ascot winner Deep Cave, Newbury scorer King’s Threshold and newbie Josh The Boss have been let in, as has Grand Geste, who is bidding to defy a 10lb increase in the weights for winning the Tommy Whittle at Haydock last month.
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