HAYDOCK Park will welcome some of horseracing's elite this weekend as it prepares for the highlight of its jump racing calendar, The Betfair Chase.

Among those declared to run in Saturday’s big race are this year’s Randox Grand National hero Corach Rambler, who is expected to line-up alongside three others including Cheltenham Boodles Gold Cup runner-up Bravemansgame.

Last year’s winner Protektorat, co-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson, will return in a bid to defend his crown while Royale Pagaille, who has shown great form around Haydock Park in the past, completes the quartet for this year’s renewal.

Earlier this week it was confirmed that three-time winning Betfair Chase jockey Daryl Jacob would be partnering Bravemansgame for the very first time after his regular jockey Harry Cobden was booked in to ride at Ascot.

Speaking about the chance to claim a record-equalling fourth victory, Jacob said: “Bravemansgame is a top-class horse and any opportunity to ride one like him is a hugely exciting one.

“I rode him for the first time at home this week when schooling him over fences and he really gives you a lovely feel – I’m very excited to be heading to the Betfair Chase with him on Saturday.

“I’ve been lucky enough to experience big success in this race, and Haydock Park will always hold many special memories for me, being a place where I won the big one three times with Bristol de Mai and giving me some of the most thrilling days of my career.”

While Bravemansgame is one of the most exciting staying chasers in training this season, he’s expected to have a job on his hands to get his nose out in front with last year’s winner Protektorat likely to thrive in conditions. The Betfair Chase is also a race that favour repeat winners, with Kauto Star, Cue Card and Silviniaco Conti all joining Bristol de Mai in racking up multiple success.

Speaking about his victory in 2022, Protektorat’s trainer Dan Skelton said: “It was fantastic to win it last year as it is one of those lifetime races and it’s hard enough to get a runner in it, so when you have your chance, you have got to try and take it. If he can be a dual winner, all the better.”

Protektorat, part-owned by Sir Alex Ferguson is second favourite to win the race, followed by the Ventia Williams-trained Royale Pagaille at 7-1 and Corach Rambler at 9-1.

Saturday’s card features a further six races, with the first getting underway at 12.05pm and the last at 3.35pm. Gates on the day are at 10.05pm.

For further information & tickets, visit www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/haydock