Sprinter to step up in trip next?

Sprinter Sacre could step up in trip at Aintree for his next race after his bloodless Champion Chase win at Cheltenham.

Trainer Nicky Henderson has revealed connections have discussed the possibility of the John Smith's Melling Chase on April 5 being the next race for the brilliant two-miler.

The Boylesports.com Champion Chase at Punchestown over two miles on April 23, which was named as his likely next target after his Cheltenham romp, still remains an option, as does the Celebration Chase at Sandown on April 27.

"We have given this quite a lot of consideration over the last few days as to where we go from here. Aintree is that week quicker this year than it was last year, but consequently we have sort of not ruled out going to Aintree," the Seven Barrows handler told At The Races.

"We might try him over two and a half (miles) which would open up a few extra avenues for next year. He has got this hugely high cruising speed and the faster he goes the better he probably jumps.

"When you are holding him up behind horses you are just containing his enthusiasm and his natural talent which is to go and bowl and jump and attack.

"I'd think it might be a good idea. We've discussed it at length this week. We haven't said definitely it's what we are going to do. We were thinking of Punchestown and there's also the Celebration Chase at Sandown on the final day (of the season). So we have got three options.

"You'd imagine he would only take up one, but he may do two. He's only had three races this season and you'd have to conclude, without being too complacent, that he hasn't had too many hard races. Therefore we would like to appear again.

"He looks great. His coat was fantastic going into Cheltenham. We've still got another fortnight to go before Aintree and we'll monitor it but our thoughts at the moment are leaning towards that (Aintree)."