NICKY Henderson is thankful Cheltenham's big meeting on Saturday looks likely to beat the weather as it enables him to get Sprinter Sacre back in action in the rearranged Victor Chandler Chase.

Lambourn trainer Henderson had National Hunt racing's new superstar primed for Ascot last weekend, but the weather scuppered those plans and it looked like Festival Trials Day was heading in the same direction earlier in the week.

However, a mammoth effort by the groundstaff has given the meeting every chance and Henderson has been happy with Sprinter Sacre since his effortless win in the Tingle Creek Chase last month.

"He's absolutely 100 per cent and is ready to go," said Henderson.

"He had a routine check on Monday and was perfect so we are very much looking forward to it.

"Cheltenham has done wonders to get the meeting on and I think everybody is grateful for that.

"It was a pity Ascot went, but we're very pleased to get a run into him now.

"Everything has gone well since Sandown and we are very happy with him."

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