Racing:Jockey Paddy Brennan is delighted with Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Imperial Commander ahead of the Betfair Chase at Haydock on Saturday.
"He seems in great form and he looks very fit," the jockey told sportinglife.com as they prepare to renew their partnership for the first time this season.
"I schooled him and he felt every bit as well if not better than last year. He's done everything that we've asked him to at home. Nigel (Twiston-Davies) is happy with him and I was very happy with the way he's schooled."
Although imperious at Prestbury Park, the majority of the nine-year-old's form away from Cheltenham has not quite measured up, but this isn't something that bothers his jockey.
"I don't think he needs to prove anything more away from Cheltenham considering he was just touched off by Kauto Star in the Betfair Chase at Haydock last year," Brennan said.
"He was very unlucky last year. His head was down when Kauto's was up. I thought we'd won it at first."
One of the keys to his performances has been his jumping, something that has let him down at Kempton in the past when tackling the King George on Boxing Day.
"Every fence is important," Brennan added.
"He's normally a very good jumper. It's important to get over those first few fences and get into a nice rhythm but its the same for everybody."
Imperial Commander has propelled Brennan into the spotlight, but the pressure of a big race doesn't get to him too much.
He said: "There's always pressure. Whether you're in a selling hurdle or in races like this, but i'm just privileged to be riding the best horse in the race.
"There's no such thing as a good thing in racing but I couldn't be happier with my horse."