Whisper set to move up to RSA at Cheltenham Festival

Whisper (pictured, right, with trainer Nicky Henderson) is more likely to contest the RSA Novices' Chase than the JLT at the Cheltenham Festival.

Nicky Henderson feels the extra distance of the RSA will suit the nine-year-old, who is two from two over fences this season and went to Kempton for a gallop on Tuesday.

He does have victories in a Grade One over three miles to his name but they were over hurdles, at Aintree in 2014 and 2015.

"I think the only thing that has seriously come into mind is that Whisper ought to move up to the RSA from the JLT," said Henderson.

"Not because of yesterday. I've just been thinking about it and I've spoken to Davy Russell the night before last. I'm just thinking it might be a kinder race to him.

"He just needs to get into his rhythm, which he has both times, but two and a half (miles) at JLT pace might not give him the chance. He has stayed the three at Aintree at least.

"Our thoughts at the moment are that he wants to go three and not two and a half."

WHISPER (FR)Age: 9 (Foaled May 2008)Sex: Bay GeldingBreeding: Astarabad (USA) - Belle Yepa (FR) (Mansonnien (FR))Trainer: Nicky HendersonOwner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd