COTSWOLD star Wyck Hill looks all the more promising after the form of rival horse Katenko.

Stow-on-the-Wold trainer David Bridgwater saw the eight-year-old defeat Katenko at Ascot from 6lb out of the handicap ahead of a Racing Plus Chase bid at Kempton on February 25.

Venetia William’s French import has since triumphed at Sandown and Cheltenham to boost his Gold Cup hopes.

Bridgwater is considering a Gold Cup challenge for Wyck Hill in March but a Grand National tilt could be the preferred option.

“I was rubbing my hands watching Katenko. It makes us look a very well-handicapped horse,” said Bridgwater.

“The Gold Cup is wide open this year so if we were to win well at Kempton, we’d probably take our chance. I’ve no doubt in my mind our horse is better than Katenko.”

Bridgwater was happy last year’s Gold Cup runner-up The Giant Bolster missed the gruelling Argento Chase at Cheltenham. He will head for the Denman Chase at Newbury a week on Saturday.

“I don’t think many people learned much from Cheltenham on Saturday regarding March as the ground was so bad although it was great racing,” said Bridgwater.

“The Giant Bolster will head for the Denman Chase providing the ground isn’t too bad.”