LAMBOURN trainer Nicky Henderson has decided not to run Champion Chase favourite Sprinter Sacre at the Cheltenham Festival.

Henderson claimed Sprinter Sacre is not reaching last season’s high standards.

“Sprinter’s work over 10 furlongs was all right, and with any other horse you’d think it was fine, but Sprinter is not showing the same brilliance as last season,” said Henderson.

“We will concentrate on getting Sprinter back next season to the same form he showed last season.”

Sprinter was odds-on favourite to repeat his success of last year. In revised betting, Sire De Grugy was promoted to 5-4 favourite with Paddy Power from Arvika Ligeonniere at 9-2.