The declarations have been made, the horses are ready – the clash between Shishkin and Energumene is on.
Two of the most exciting chasers for many a year are set to do battle at Ascot on Saturday.
Fans have been talking about the race for weeks, fearing that one of the big two may be pulled out in the run up.
But all the doubts have disappeared now trainers Nicky Henderson and Willie Mullins have confirmed both runners.
Originally they were due to meet at the 2021 Cheltenham Festival, but a late setback for Energumene ruled him out.
Shishkin was therefore in a league of his own when winning the Arkle Chase.
Very little separates the horses on ratings ahead of this weekend's SBK Clarence House, billed as one of the races of the season.
If it follows the script, it is likely to have a huge impact on the Cheltenham Festival 2022 betting markets.
Profiles of the big two
SHISHKIN
Unbeaten in all completed starts under Rules. The only blemish on his record came when he fell on his hurdling debut. He quickly put that behind him, taking his next three starts over the smaller obstacles.
A bigger price than many expected at the 2020 Cheltenham Festival, plenty went wrong for him that day but he still came home in front. Nico de Boinville's mount met trouble in running, however at the finish he was a head to the good over Abacadabras.
Since then Shishkin has looked an even better chaser, flying his fences and powering on at the finish. He appeared a little rusty on seasonal debut, but still had the extra reserves to win comfortably.
The second Greaneteen won a Grade 1 on his previous start and although he isn't as classy as the big race favourite, the performance just highlights his talent.
ENERGUMENE
Has less experience than his main rival, making up for that in huge potential.
Mullins was quick to get him over fences, after two runs in bumpers and a hurdle. From the word go the point-to-point winner took to it and all of his five triumphs have been from the front.
He was particularly relentless at the 2021 Punchestown Festival, easing home 16 lengths clear of Janidil. Captain Guinness, third behind Shishkin in the Arkle, was tiring when he unseated Rachael Blackmore at the final fence.
Energumene's way of galloping exploits flaws in his rivals and he stays two-and-a-half miles. He is expected to try and stretch Shishkin but his rival's tidy jumping should see him follow closely on soft ground that suits both.
Who do you think will win?
The bookies are offering odds of around 8-13 for Shishkin and 15-8 Energumene. Let us know here:
