Champion Chase 17 set for Festival

Dual winner Master Minded spearheads 17 horses remaining in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham on 17 March.

The Paul Nicholls-trained ace bids to become the first horse since Badsworth Boy (1983-5) to complete a hat-trick in the Seasons Holidays-sponsored showpiece.

The champion trainer also has the in-form Twist Magic and Free World.

Opposition on the home front is headed by Ferdy Murphy's Kalahari King, while last year's respective second and third, Well Chief and Petit Robin, are also among the acceptors.

Leading a seven-strong Irish entry is Colm Murphy's Big Zeb, while John Murphy's Newmill could try to repeat his 2006 victory in this race.

Henry de Bromhead has also left in Arkle Trophy fancy Sizing Europe.

The seven withdrawals were Fiepes Shuffle, I'msingingtheblues, Lord Henry, Santa's Son, Takeroc, Tartak and Voy Por Ustedes, who is on course for the Ryanair Chase.