Balthazar King has a terrific record fresh and makes plenty of appeal at 11/2 to make a winning seasonal reappearance in the 3.50 at Cheltenham.
Philip Hobb's seven-year-old developed into a useful novice chaser around 3m this time last year, and didn't need to be at this best to win two more in the spring under today's ground condirtions.
Those to wins came off a rating of 140, and the handicapper has certainly given him a chnace by allotting him an opening mark of 136 for this campaign.
He also has course form to his name, having put up a cracking effort when chasing home the useful Wayward Prince here last November.
Another encouraging stat is that he has scored after lengthy lay-offs on three occasions, so first time up could be the time to ctach him.
With Richard Johnson in the saddle he looks sure to go close, and at 11/2 I think he is good value and will take all the beating.
At 11/2 he looks an each-way steal
Recommended bet: 3pts each-way Balthazar King (11/2 generally available)
