ALL roads lead to Cheltenham for The Sawyer following his fantastic effort in defeat in the Betfair Ascot Chase on Saturday.

The 10-year-old has enjoyed lucrative handicap successes at Ascot and Cheltenham during the current campaign, but his third place finish in Grade One company at the weekend was arguably a career-best effort.

He will return to the handicap arena at next month’s Festival and trainer Bob Buckler is also considering a trip to France later in the year.

“He ran a super race and I’m just trying to get hold of the handicapper to find out what he’s going to do, hopefully he won’t be too harsh,” said Buckler.

“He’s come out of the race well and hopefully he’ll head to Cheltenham now for either the two-mile-five-furlong handicap (Byrne Group Plate) or the William Hill Trophy over three miles.

“I knew he’d run a good race as he always does, but it was very exciting.

“We are looking at a race in France but I haven’t found out too much about it yet and I’m not sure if it’s a Grade One or not.

“I just think it would be good fun, he’d probably get the soft ground he likes and I don’t think jumping French fences would be a problem for him.”

Buckler also had news of leading Grand National contender Niche Market, who may even clash with his stable companion at Cheltenham.

“He came out of his last run at Newbury absolutely fine and he’ll go for the William Hill Trophy before heading for the National,” the trainer added.