The Champion Bumper has long been a springboard for future stars, and this year’s renewal looks no exception, with a typically deep field spearheaded by a strong Willie Mullins team. While the market has already latched onto the obvious candidates, there’s still value to be unearthed when we break down form, pace dynamics, and suitability in more granular detail.

The pace forecast is notably strong, and that has a clear bearing on how this race may unfold. This often tactical contest is set to be run at a relentless tempo this year, which could tilt the scales towards strong stayers and those with the ability to settle off a hot early gallop.

Gameofinches looks a rock-solid proposition and could easily prove the best of the Mullins contingent. His Punchestown success was visually striking, travelling strongly before powering away under minimal pressure. He’s bred to stay further, and a strong pace plays directly into his hands, with the bonus of P. Townend’s excellent Cheltenham record (28% strike rate) a further tick in the box. Crucially, he’s not just style over substance – his TFR of 123p is backed by sectional strength and strong visual cues suggesting more to come. At around 9/2, he looks fairly priced and represents the best combination of form, progression, pace-suitability and jockey/trainer synergy.

Bambino Fever brings the best form in the book courtesy of her Grade 2 win at Leopardstown, and there’s plenty to like about her attitude and turn of foot. A strong pace will suit her hold-up style and she’s top-rated on Timeform at 131p, which can’t be ignored. She’s a filly taking on the boys, but that hasn’t stopped Mullins in the past and her trend profile is exemplary. The one question is whether she’ll be as effective in this deeper mixed-gender company, but she remains the chief threat.

If you’re looking for an each-way angle at a big price, Shuttle Diplomacy is impossible to ignore. He ticks none of the obvious trend boxes, and market confidence is non-existent – but the raw data tells a different story. A TFR of 124 and a standout Stats profile suggest he’s well above his current price (50/1). He’ll love the strong gallop and has won in testing ground – if ridden for a late run, he could pick off a few tiring rivals and sneak into the places. It’s a value play rather than a bullish win bet, but he’s worth chancing.

Another one who’s flying under the radar is Fortune De Mer, who raced far too freely last time in a slowly-run affair, but was previously a listed winner at Cheltenham. The return to a stronger pace could allow him to settle better and rediscover that earlier promise. At 28/1, he’s a quiet each-way player if connections can get him to relax.

The likes of Copacabana and Kalypsochance arrive with potential, but both look priced close to their ceilings given the depth of opposition and may be vulnerable if this develops into a test of stamina and balance under pressure.


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Summary Bets (at current odds):

Win – Gameofinches (9/2) – Well-balanced profile, strong pace suit.

Saver – Bambino Fever (5/1) – Top TFR, smart filly, Grade 2 winner.

Each-Way – Shuttle Diplomacy (50/1) – Outsider with upside, best suited by strong pace.

Alternative EW – Fortune De Mer (28/1) – Listed winner, return to pace pressure suits.