Cheltenham Festival Preview 2019

SKY BET SUPREME NOVICES' HURDLE GRADE 1

AL DANCER (FR)

6 gr g Al Namix – Steel Dancer Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd Al Dancer was a good fourth in a Grade 2 Bumper at Aintree last season, a race that has worked out very well this campaign. He’s built on the promise he showed in that sphere to make up into a very smart hurdler this season for Dai Walters and Nigel Twiston-Davies. He won two novice races in good style before bolting up by 11-lengths off a very lenient handicap mark at Cheltenham.

ANGELS BREATH (IRE)

5 gr g Shantou – Mystic Masie Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd & Ronnie Bartlett Angels Breath had a very good reputation in the point-to-point sphere prior to joining Nicky Henderson for the current season. He made his debut a winning one with a very taking victory over Danny Kirwan in a Grade 2 at Ascot. The ground was very testing on that occasion, and there were hurdles omitted, but it was a very taking debut nonetheless.

ARAMON (GER) 6 b g Monsun – Aramina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Supreme Horse Racing Club & Michael Songer This son of Monsun has looked a very good recruit to hurdles this season for Willie Mullins. He looked very good when winning a Grade 3 at Navan on just his third start over hurdles with subsequent Grade 1 winner Quick Grabim in behind. Aramon tasted Grade 1 success of his own at Leopardstown over Christmas, running away with the Future Champions Novice Hurdle under Ruby Walsh. Deserted by Ruby on his next start, he went down on his sword behind stablemate Klassical Dream, despite looking the likely winner jumping the last. Aramon seems well suited to 2m on decent ground, he should run his race here if bringing his best form to the table.

CHAMPAGNE PLATINUM (IRE) 5 gr g Stowaway – Saffron Holly

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Champagne Platinum has looked very smart in both his starts for Nicky Henderson this season, winning comfortably on debut at Newcastle before recording a very good win at Newbury in a race his trainer has unleashed some very smart types in over the years. This horse may lack the experience of some of these, but I think he’s one with a lot of natural talent, he easily could surprise a few here. He also holds an entry in the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle.

ELIXIR DE NUTZ (FR) 5 gr g Al Namix – Nutz

Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Terry Warner I don’t think this horse has been given the credit he deserves this season and has looked one of the best 2m hurdles the UK has to offer. He built on his return to action in October to land a Grade 2 over this C&D a month later, before backing that up to win under a 10lb penalty on his next outing to defeat very easy subsequent winner, Jarveys Plate. I don’t think it was a strong renewal of the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle this horse won but I thought he travelled and jumped very well despite possibly not loving the ground conditions. I think he’s been underestimated heading into this race and needs plenty of respect.

FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES (FR)

4 b g Kapgarde – Niiagaria Du Bois Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Promising juvenile; Fakir D’oudairies has looked very good since joining Joseph O’Brien from France this season, winning both his starts in very good style, including a very impressive 13lengths win at Cheltenham in January. No 4yo has won this race since 1999, but this son of Kapgarde has plenty of experience from his days in France that included a couple of runs over fences. I think he’s short enough in the betting for this race, but I can also see the appeal.

FELIX DESJY (FR)

6 ch g Maresca Sorrento – Lamadoun Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Felix Desjy was very highly-regarded in Bumper’s last season, winning his first two before failing to live up to expectations in Grade 1 races. He won his maiden over hurdles in good style at Galway, but began to look rather frustrating after that. He bounced back in grand style when making all in the Grade 2 Moscow Flyer Novice Hurdle at Punchestown, a race won by Vautour and Douvan in the past. Felix Desjy had his regular hood left off on that occasion and seemed to enjoy the more positive tactics. It’ll be difficult to repeat those tactics here, but he has the engine to go well.

GRAND SANCY (FR)

5 b g Diamond Boy – La Courtille Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Martin Broughton Racing Partners Grand Sancy was pretty highly tried as a juvenile last season and started the season rated 125 as a result of some poor efforts in Graded company. He’s grown up over the summer and has quickly improved through the ranks, winning 4-times, including the Grade 2 Kingwell Hurdle last time at Wincanton. He’ll need to reverse previous form with Elixir De Nutz here, but he’s going the right way.

ITCHY FEET (FR) 5 b g Cima De Triomphe – Maeva Candas Trainer: Olly Murphy Owner: Kate & Andrew Brooks Itchy Feet won on his hurdling debut in fine style at Southwell in October, before landing a Listed contest at Kempton in good fashion, beating subsequent Grade 2 winner Grand Sancy by over 2lengths. He ran a very promising race in defeat behind subsequent Grade 1 winner Elixir De Nutz at Cheltenham in November, only beaten just over 1-length conceding 5lb to the winner. I’m sure Olly Murphy would have liked to have got a run into him since that race, but on form, he’s in the mix-up.

KLASSICAL DREAM (FR)

5 b g Dream Well – Klassical Way Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs Joanne Coleman Klassical Dream had some useful form in France for his previous yard prior to joining Willie Mullins team, with his best effort a good fourth in the Grade 1 Prix Cambaceres at Auteuil behind the very talented Master Dino. He broke his maiden-tag over hurdles in good style at Leopardstown, he wasn’t fluent over the last, but he kept on well. Klassical Dream followed up in tenacious fashion on his next start in the Grade 1 Chanelle Pharma Novice Hurdle over the same C&D, battling back after being headed to narrowly deny his stablemate Aramon. He’s relatively closely matched with Aramon on that running, but the C&D here could play to his strengths.

MISTER FISHER (IRE)

5 b g Jeremy – That’s Amazing Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: James & Jean Potter Mister Fisher was possibly unlucky not to get off the mark at the first time of asking over hurdles when finishing a short-head second at Newbury, the form has worked out well-enough since. He dramatically built on that effort to land a decent Novices’ Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day, a race Nicky Henderson won with Altior in the past. He possibly didn’t need to improve on his previous form to land a Grade 2 Supreme Trial at Haydock when we last seen him, but he done it well-enough despite lugging to his left on the run-in. This son of Jeremy is a likeable horse, but he’ll need to improve further to win this.

THOMAS DARBY (IRE) 6 b g Beneficial – Silaoce

Trainer: Olly Murphy Owner: Mrs Diana L Whatley I’ve always been a fan of this horse since he won his Bumper at Huntingdon last season in the style of a horse with a very bright future ahead of him. He made a very pleasing hurdling debut at Cheltenham, despite showing clear signs of greenness, he pulled nicely clear of Elixir De Nutz, who has since won a three-times, including a Grade 1. I don’t think the tracks at Ascot and Kempton played to his strengths on his next two outings, but he still performed with credit on each occasion. This strong gallop on a sound surface will suit him very well.

Verdict This contest won’t go down in the history book as the best Supreme Novices’ Hurdle of all time, but it’s an open affair that looks a good race from a betting perspective. I thought Angels Breath lost little in defeat last time at Kempton, the ground was pretty quick and the winner actually broke the track record in the process. He’d previously only had one run under rules jumping a couple of hurdles due to low sun and it’s possible he might have just needed the run after having to have a flu-jab and having to have an easy week beforehand. He could easily go for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle over the longer trip, but he needs respect wherever he shows up. Grand Sancy continues to improve and has come a long way since the start of the season. He has to reverse earlier form with a few of these, but he’s undoubtedly improved since then, so that’s more than achievable. Aramon and Klassical Dream looked closely matched based on their running at Leopardstown last time. This stiffer track will suit the latter, but it’s quite possible he could go for the Ballymore. 4yo’s don’t have a brilliant record in this race, but Fakir D’oudairies will look to change that for JP McManus and Joseph O’Brien. He was an emphatic winner here on his last outing, he’ll need more against his elders, but he might just have that in his locker. Mister Fisher needs a lot more to land this for Nicky Henderson and he wouldn’t be for me in this. I’m going to take two against the field in this, ELIXIR DE NUTZ has gone massively under the radar this season, but his form has continued to get boosted without him even leaving his stables. He’s a slick jumper that stays the trip well, he makes the running and will likely be gaining lengths at his hurdles. The other I like is the only horse that has defeated Elixir De Nutz this season, THOMAS DARBY. He was green as grass when landing a C&D maiden hurdle earlier in the season, but still managed to pull over 3-lengths clear. His connections named this contest as his target after his win at Taunton, but his participation will depend on how much of a clear run he’s had in the build up with everything that has gone on with flu-jabs. If he doesn’t show up here, his mark of 140 is very attractive for the County Hurdle. I was at Ffos Las when Al Dancer won earlier in the season and thought he was a lovely prospect for the future, but I never thought he’d be favourite for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle. He arguably has one of the best pieces of form coming into this race, but I was hoping he’d be a bigger price, but I expect him to go well.

Selection: ELIXIR DE NUTZ @8/1 Win & THOMAS DARBY @20/1 Each-Way

RACING POSTÂ ARKLE NOVICES' CHASE GRADE 1

CILAOS EMERY (FR) 7 b g Califet – Queissa

Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Luke McMahon Cilaos Emery was arguably the best of these over hurdles, with his biggest success coming in the Grade 1 Herald Champion Novice Hurdle at Punchestown in 2017 over Melon. He didn’t make his chasing debut until the end of January, but he made it a winning one with a convincing success at Gowran Park. That was an above average Beginners Chase on paper, and you had to be impressed in the way he travelled throughout before pulling nicely clear of some talented and race-fit rivals. Cilaos Emery clearly lacks the experience of some of his rivals, but he undoubtedly has the class to play a leading role.

DEFI DU SEUIL (FR)

6 b g Voix Du Nord – Quarvine Du Seuil Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus Defi Du Seuil really has got his career back on track this season over the larger obstacles after encountering a troubled 2017/18 campaign. He didn’t jump well enough on his chasing debut at Cheltenham, but learnt from the experience to win comfortably in a good Novices’ Chase at Exeter on his next start. He gained revenge on Lostintranslation under a more patient ride from Barry Geraghty to land a first Grade 1 success over fences last time at Sandown. He holds entries in both the Arkle Novices’ Chase (2m) and JLT Novices’ Chase (2m4f) at the Cheltenham Festival.

GLEN FORSA (IRE) 7 b g Mahler – Outback Ivy Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: T P Redford This son of Mahler has taken his form to a new level over the larger obstacles this season, winning a 3m handicap chase off a mark of 114 on his chase debut, before bolting up in the Grade 2 Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Sandown last time, beating Kalashnikov by 19-lengths. Glen Forsa is a very lightly raced horse that should have plenty more to come over fences, he jumps, travels and stays extremely well, which you need in this race. He’s a solid contender in this contest. He also has the option of running in the JLT over 2m4f, but the open nature of this race might tempt connections.

HARDLINE (IRE)

7 b g Arcadio – Hidden Reserve Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Hardline had some useful form over hurdles last season, but he’s another in this field that has taken his form to a new level over fences this campaign, winning three of his five starts. He beat Us And Them by 10-lengths at Grade 2 level in December, before lowering the colours of Getabird in a Grade 1 at Limerick. The seemed to ride him like a non-stayer in the Flogas last time, but the way he kept on after getting outpaced suggests he stayed the trip well, but he was no match for La Bague Au Roi. He holds entries in both the Arkle Novices’ Chase and JLT Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, with the former being connections preferred target.

KALASHNIKOV (IRE)

6 br g Kalanisi – Fairy Lane Trainer: Amy Murphy Owner: Paul Murphy Kalashinikov was one of the best novice hurdlers in the UK last season and was possibly unlucky not to win the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at last year’s Cheltenham Festival. He’s proved himself as affective over the larger obstacles this season and really is a credit to Amy Murphy. He’s a big galloping type that wouldn’t have been suited to the tight nature of the track at Kempton when finishing behind Dynamite Dollars, and I’m certain he’s a lot better than he showed on that occasion. He’s a horse that’s proven himself versatile regards ground conditions and has previous Cheltenham Festival form, which is always a good thing to have on others, but he needs a lot more.

LALOR (GER)

7 b g It’s Gino – Laviola Trainer: Kayley Woollacott Owner: D G Staddon I haven’t seen many more visually impressive debuts over fences than the one Lalor posted at Cheltenham in November, and the form of the race has worked out very well indeed. He jumped and travelled extremely well before pulling 7-lengths clear of Dynamite Dollars. He flopped on his next start at Sandown, but the ground was simply too soft for him on that occasion, and I’m more than happy to strike a line through that run. Kayley Woollacott will be sending her stable star straight to the Cheltenham Festival without a prep run, which isn’t by design and has to be a negative to his chances, but he’s a horse that comes alive in the spring on a sound surface and his win over C&D remains firmly in my mind.

PALOMA BLUE (IRE)

7 b g Stowaway – Court Leader Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: C Jones I’ve always been a fan of this son of Stowaway since he made a winning debut for his connections in a Bumper at Leopardstown. He ran some nice races over hurdles last season, chasing home Samcro and Next Destination, before finishing a good fourth in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at last season’s Cheltenham Festival on unsuitable ground. He made an unsatisfactory debut over fences at Navan in November, possibly needing the run. He bounced back in good style when landing a decent contest at Leopardstown over Christmas, looking well in control of his main rival Real Steal, who came down at the last fence when seemingly losing the battle. Paloma Blue needs to improve in the jumping department, but I think he will in a proper run race.

Verdict An intriguing renewal of the Racing Post Arkle Novices’ Chase with a few seemingly holding strong claims. Kalashnikov went agonisingly close to landing the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle on this card 12-months ago, he looks to go one better in this. He’s proved himself to be as effective over fences this season winning his first starts in very good style before being denied by Dynamite Dollars in Grade 2 company over Christmas. I don’t think the track at Kempton played to his strengths on that occasion, and he’s a lot better than he showed there, he’ll enjoy this stiffer test here. Defi Du Seuil also has the option of taking up his entry in the JLT Novices’ Chase over 2m4f, but with this looking a winnable race, he could easily end up in this. His jumping will come under more scrutiny over this trip and he may need some cut in the ground, but he’ll need plenty of respect if turning up here. There’s no doubting that Cilaos Emery was the best of these over hurdles with a Grade 1 win over Melon to his name. He made the perfect start to his chasing career when winning comfortably at Gowran Park, however, that form took a knock with the second getting beat at short-odds on his next outing. He needs plenty of respect based on his hurdling form and his connections, but he lacks the experience of some of these over fences, which is enough to put me off him at this stage. I’ve always been a fan of Paloma Blue and it would be no surprise to me if he was good enough to win this race. He built on his below par effort on his chasing debut to land a Beginners Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas despite not jumping fluently. His jumping will need to improve to win this, but he strikes me as the type that’ll improve in a higher grade on a sound surface. For some reason, I can’t ignore in LALOR this, which is undoubtedly a risky selection. I think it’s risky because he’ll be heading into this without a prep-run, but he’s a horse that has a very good record when fresh, and his record in the spring is also very good. I was blown away with his chasing debut over this C&D in November, and there’s no doubt a repeat of that performance would make him very hard to beat in this contest. I’m happy to strike a line through his disappointing effort at Sandown with the ground conditions on the day clearly not suiting. Going by the current betting, it looks like Glen Forsa will be heading for this contest, but as we know a lot can change between now and then. He’s a very smart horse that jumps extremely well, which is the name of the game.

Selection: LALOR @10/3 Win (8/1 Ante-Post Win)

ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE GRADEÂ 3

BELAMI DES PICTONS (FR) 8 b g Khalkevi – Nina Des Pictons

Trainer: Venetia Williams Owner: Hills Of Ledbury Useful form 2016/17 season; Belami Des Pictons had some useful form behind Waiting Patiently in the past but a few setbacks meant he missed the most of last season. I thought he ran OK on his return from a 454-day break last time at Sandown, but weakened rapidly towards the finish and was eventually pulled-up, which is understandable after so long off the course. He should come on for that effort, but he wouldn’t be for me here.

BENATAR (IRE)

7 b g Beneficial – Carrigeen Lily Trainer: Gary Moore Owner: Ashley Head

Benatar is a horse I’ve always liked and I’m convinced he has a nice handicap in him at some point. He ran a nice race in the JLT last season despite possibly not being totally in love with the ground. He also holds and entry in the 2m4f race, which might be more suitable as I’m not totally convinced, he stays 3m well for this stamina tested contest.

BEWARE THE BEAR (IRE) 9 b g Shantou – Native Bid Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Mr G B Barlow It was good to see this horse get his head in front again when landing a 3m2f handicap off a big weight here in January. He used his proven stamina too outstay his rivals in first time blinkers on that occasion, which he might not be able to do in this contest, but a 5lb rise is fair enough and he holds strong claims if the blinkers have the same desired effect.

BLACK CORTON (FR)

8 br g Laverock – Pour Le Meilleur Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: The Brooks, Stewart Families & J Kyle Black Corton had an excellent novice season over fences last campaign, which included a Grade 1 victory at Kempton. He’s a two-time winner at Cheltenham and has the form to win off his current mark. He should run a big race if he jumps a lot better than he did at Ascot on his most recent start.

CHEF DES OBEAUX (FR)

7 b g Saddler Maker – O Dame De Gene Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Chef Des Obeaux showed plenty of ability over hurdles last season, winning 3 of his 4 starts before ending the season with two pulled-up efforts in Grade 1 races in the spring. He had begun to look rather disappointing over fences (jumping poorly on both occasions), but he took advantage of a good opportunity last time at Chepstow to win in grand style. He needs a lot more if he’s going to defy a mark of 149 here.

COO STAR SIVOLA (IRE) 7 b g Assessor – Santorine Trainer: Nick Williams Owner: Babbit Racing Coo Star Sivola was a game winner of this race last season, winning in better fashion than the final winning margin may suggest. He hasn’t been seen to best effect in a handful of runs this season, but he comes into this season’s renewal on only a 3lb higher mark, which is very encouraging. He’s a horse that loves Cheltenham and has that vital Cheltenham Festival experience. This race would have been the plan the moment he crossed the line last season.

He’s a strong contender.

DINGO DOLLAR (IRE)

7 ch g Golden Lariat – Social Society Trainer: Alan King Owner: M Warren, J Holmes, R Kidner & J Wright Dingo Dollar gives off the impression he has a big handicap in him at some point, but he just needs to find a little more. I thought he ran a very nice race in the Ladbrokes Trophy at Newbury (form worked out well) despite not enjoying the ground conditions. He was going well enough on at Doncaster last time before making a couple of bad mistakes that ended his chances. I think he’s on a workable mark at present and this C&D should suit him well. Good chance.

DOUNIKOS (FR)

8 b g Smadoun – Baby Sitter Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Dounikos has always been a horse that has been held in high-regard by his connections, but he was beginning to become rather disappointing. He bounced back in good style to land a valuable prize at Punchestown last time by over 4-lengths, looking a very good staying chase prospect for connections. I don’t think the handicapper will be kind for that win, but he has course experience, which should aid his cause.

GIVE ME A COPPER (IRE)

9 ch g Presenting – Copper Supreme Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Done, Ferguson, Kyle, Mason & Wood Lightly raced; Give Me A Copper has clearly faced a few setbacks in his career, but he’s a horse with a huge amount of natural ability. He’s only ran three-times over fences, which is likely to go against plenty of the race trends for this contest, but he’s a horse that jumps extremely well. I thought his comeback effort at Sandown last time was very encouraging, shaping like the winner before his lack of a recent run told turning for home. He was given a Gold Cup entry before that run, which tells you how highly regarded he is. Big Shout.

LE BREUIL (FR)

7 ch g Anzillero – Slew Dancer Trainer: Ben Pauling Owner: Mrs Emma Palmer I’ve always been a fan of this horse, and always felt he’d make an above average chaser. He took advantage of a gilt-edged opportunity on his chasing debut at Huntingdon before finishing a good second in a good Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham in November. I thought he ran a very good race when finishing third behind Santini in a Grade 2 at Newbury on his next start. It was his first attempt at three-miles and possibly didn’t quite get home in the ground conditions, but it was a good effort nonetheless. Better ground conditions will suit him here and he could be on a workable mark.

JERRYSBACK (IRE)

7 b g Jeremy – Get A Few Bob Back Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus This son of Jeremy has had his issues with injuries in the past, but he’s always been a horse that has promised a lot. He has looked a very bright prospect over fences this season, staying on well to win at Bangor, before chasing home Vinndication in a Grade 2 at Ascot. His mark of 148 is fair enough on what he’s achieved to date and there could be more to come from him if connections opt for this contest over 3m1f.

MALL DINI (IRE)

9 b g Milan – Winsome Breeze Trainer: Patrick G Kelly Owner: Philip J Reynolds This will be Mall Dini’s fourth appearance at the Cheltenham Festival that have included a win in the Pertemps Final and a second in the Kim Muir last season. He will appreciate some better ground at this season’s meeting, I just feel he’s vulnerable off his current handicap mark, but with that said, his experience at this meeting will count for a lot.

MISTER MALARKY (GB) 6 ch g Malinas – Priscilla

Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Wendy & Malcolm Hezel Mister Malarky has been a revelation over fences this season winning 3 of his 4 starts, including the Grade 2 Reynoldstown at Ascot last time under an excellent ride from Robbie Power. I think his mark of 148 has scope for further improvement and he strikes me as the type that’ll excel in a race of this nature with novices having a good record in the race. He also has an option of running in the National Hunt Chase.

MISTER WHITTAKER (IRE)

7 b g Court Cave – Benbradagh Vard Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: T P Radford Mister Whittaker won the Close Brothers Novices’ Chase at this meeting last season, staying on powerfully in the testing ground conditions. He’s found life a little tougher this season in handicap contests, but this step up in trip could bring out further improvement in this son of Court Cave.

ROCKY’S TREASURE (IRE) 8 b g Westerner – Fiddlers Bar Trainer: Kim Bailey Owner: J Perris I find it interesting this Grade 2 winner doesn’t has been taken out of all the Graded contests at this meeting with this his only entry at the Cheltenham Festival. He finished a good second behind Santini at Newbury on ground far from ideal before winning by 17-lengths at Doncaster on his next start. He was slightly disappointing last time at Warwick, but he made a couple of slight mistakes and always looked on the back foot. He’s a very useful type that has a likeable profile for this race.

SINGLEFARMPAYMENT (GB) 9 b g Milan – Crevamoy Trainer: Tom George Owner: Mr N T Griffith & H M Haddock Singlefarmpayment has to be one of the most frustrating horses in training and he really should have won more races than he has. He’s ran well in this race in the past and ran well at this track plenty of times, but like I said, he’s a frustrating horse that wouldn’t be for me here.

SOME NECK (IRE)

8 gr g Yeats – Maternelle Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Some Neck has some useful form to his name over the larger obstacles with a good victory in the Grade 2 Florida Pearl Novices Chase to his name. I thought he ran well-enough last time a Punchestown despite not seeing out the trip at the finish. This drop back in trip could be suitable and he has to be entitled to plenty of respect given his connections.

TALKISCHEAP (IRE)

7 b g Getaway – Carrigmoorna Oak Trainer: Alan King Owner: Mr Charles Dingwall Talkischeap has some good form to his name over fences this season, including behind two-time Grade 1 winner La Bague Au Roi. He was a little disappointing at Kempton last time, but the ground was very quick on that occasion and I don’t think 3m around Kempton is ideal for him.

He’s on a very workable mark and there would be no surprise to see him bounce back here.

THE WORLDS END (IRE) 8 b g Stowaway – Bright Sprite Trainer: Tom George Owner: McNeill Family The Worlds End had a poor campaign over hurdles last season, but has bounced back in good style over the larger obstacles this season. He won in extremely good style on his chasing debut at Chepstow, beating a useful type by 14-lengths. He put up an excellent performance to land a Novices’ Chase at Cheltenham in Decemeber, jumping vert well out in front before pulling away from Ibis Du Rheu. He was taken off his feet at Kempton when we last seen him on Boxing Day, I can easily strike a line through that effort. I think his mark of 155 is fair, but he needs more to defy it.

Verdict The first handicap of the meeting, and always a tricky one to call. Talkischeap strikes me as the type that has a very nice handicap in him at some point and his form in novice company this season is very good. I think he just got a little tapped for toe last time at Kempton and this will be a totally different ball game, which I think will suit him well. Another novice with good form to his name is Kim Bailey’s Grade 2 winner Rocky’s Treasure, who has this contest as his sole Cheltenham Festival target despite showing enough to suggest he would be far from disgraced in Graded company. He ran creditably behind RSA Novices’ Chase favourite Santini at Newbury before running away with a Grade 2 at Doncaster on his penultimate start. I think a mark of 149 is fair enough and there should be more to come from him. The World’s End goes well at Cheltenham, but he likes to have his own way in front, which will be highly unlikely in this contest. Mister Malarky keeps improving and has to be respected if connections opt for this race.

I was very impressed with GIVE ME A COPPER‘s seasonal reappearance at Sandown last time, jumping and travelling very well before just showing his lack of a recent run turning for home.

Paul Nicholls thought he was good enough to be given an ambitious entry in the Cheltenham Gold Cup despite the same connections having Clan Des Obeaux towards the head of the betting.

I posted this horse as an ante-post selection on my twitter page at 20/1 after his Sandown effort, that price maybe well gone, but I’m siding with the son of Presenting here. This would have been Coo Star Sivola’s target soon after crossing the finish line in front in this race last year. That win came off a 3lb lower mark and he’s handicapped to have a good stay with a sounder surface proving no problem, he has to run a nice race again. Similar to his stablemate Talkischeap, I think Dingo Dollar has a nice handicap in him one day and this could a race run to suit. He needs to jump a lot better than he did on his latest outing, though.

Selection: GIVE ME A COPPER @13/2 Win (Ante-Post @20/1 Each-Way)

UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE GRADEÂ 1

APPLE’S JADE (FR)

7 b m Saddler Maker – Apple’s For Ever Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud I think we’re beginning to run out of superlatives to describe this wonder-mare, she seems to be getting better, and better with each run. Incredibly, she’s won open Grade 1 races over 2m, 2m4f and 3m this season, an achievement that’s highly unlikely to be repeated for a while. She was arguably better than ever dropped back to 2m last time when running away with the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown. I think she has more than earned her place in the field with her wins this season, and as a racing fan, I’d love to see her run in a Champion Hurdle. Her connections will be tempted by the ‘easier target’ of the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle and a decision will be made as late as possible.

BUVEUR D’AIR (FR) 8 b g Crillon – History

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Buveur D’Air bids to emulate his owner’s great hurdler Istabraq by landing a third Champion Hurdle in a row. He’s looked in as good, if not better form this campaign, winning the Fighting Fifth Hurdle in emphatic fashion on his seasonal return, quite possibly a career best. He was slightly disappointing on his next start in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton when getting turned over by his stablemate Verdana Blue, his jumping seemed to let him down on that occasion, but we know he’s a lot better than that. We learnt nothing about him when winning at Sandown on his latest outing, winning effortlessly and jumping a lot slicker than previous. He sets the standard they all have to aim for.

BRAIN POWER (IRE) 8 b g Kalanisi – Blonde Ambition Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Michael Buckley Improved hurdler in 2016/17 season, never really worked out for him over fences last season despite finishing second in the Racing Post Arkle Novices’ Chase. He bounced back to form in excellent fashion on his first run over hurdles for almost 20-months when convincingly landing the Grade 2 International Hurdle. His mark of 158 puts him well short of the leading contenders, but he has the ability to sneak a place on his best efforts if a few don’t show up.

ESPOIR D’ALLEN (FR)

5 b g Voix Du Nord – Quadanse Trainer: Gavin Cromwell Owner: John P McManus Espoir D’Allen has gone about his business rather under the radar this season compared to others in the predicted line-up, winning all of his three-starts in Grade 3 company in the style of an improving young hurdler. He missed the big spring festivals last season through injury, which seem to have been a blessing in disguise having skipped some gruelling races. The last 5yo to win the Champion Hurdle was Katchit in 2008, which in concerning, but he’s improving with each run and he’s definitely not without hope. Place claims.

GLOBAL CITIZEN (IRE) 7 b g Alkaadhem – Lady Willmurt Trainer: Ben Pauling Owner: The Megsons Likeable horse; Global Citizen keeps getting better and he’s more than deserved his place in this line-up with a very taking performance in the Grade 2 Unibet Hurdle at Haydock last time, beating Silver Streak by 3-lengths. He’s a keen racer that likes to get on with things from the front, which won’t be easy to do in a Champion Hurdle. Ben Pauling believes Cheltenham will play to his strengths as he stays 2m very well, but the form book suggests he’s at best on a flat track.

LAURINA (FR) 6 b m Spanish Moon – Lamboghina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Unbeaten for Willie Mullins; Laurina has looked the real deal over hurdles for her new connections, winning five-times by an aggregated winning distance of over 100-lengths. She won the Grade 2 Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in very good style last season, relishing the Soft ground.

We didn’t learn a lot about her on her return at Sandown in January, but it was hard not to be impressed with the way she travelled throughout. My only worry with her would be she clearly enjoys plenty of cut in the ground, and I’m sure the ground conditions will decide her target at the Cheltenham Festival.

MELON (GB)

7 ch g Medicean – Night Teeny Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs J Donnelly Melon ran a cracker in this race last season, finishing a neck second behind Buveur D’Air on ground conditions far softer than ideal. In my opinion, I think he would have won last year had the ground conditions been in his favour, but they weren’t and he lost nothing in defeat. He ran well-enough on his return behind Sharjah in December, but failed to build on that effort when trounced by Apple’s Jade in the Irish Champion Hurdle. It’s difficult to see him reversing the form with her if she turns up in this contest, but he clearly likes Cheltenham, and will have a good each/way shout on his best efforts.

SHARJAH (FR)

6 b g Doctor Dino – Saaryeh Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Sharjah possibly hasn’t got the recognition he deserves as a highclass two-time Grade 1 winner. There were no flukes about his wins at Punchestown and Leopardstown this season, and that form put him right in the mix here. He clearly enjoys a sound surface and has a useful turn of foot for a hurdler on his preferred ground conditions. He’s one of the younger contenders in the race, there could still be more to come from him, his mark of 163 gives him solid place claims.

VERDANA BLUE (IRE)

7 b m Getaway – Blue Gallery Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Crimbourne Stud Useful mare; Verdana Blue caused a big shock when defeating reigning Champion Hurdle winner Buveur D’Air in the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle at Kempton on Boxing Day. Obviously, that was a career best by some way and her stablemates jumping let him down on the day, but that win has more than booked her ticket at the Cheltenham Festival. She enjoys a sound surface, but despite beating Buveur D’Air, she still needs to find more to win this.

Verdict A Unibet Champion Hurdle that has the potential to be cracker if all of the marker principals turn up. Laurina has the option of running in this race or the Grade 2 OLBG Mares’ Hurdle, but her owner seems pretty keen to let her take her chance in the Champion Hurdle, which would be great for the race. She looks a mare with a very bright future ahead of her, but my worry with her would be the ground, she’s a mare with quite a pronounced knee-action and will undoubtedly be at her best on Soft ground. If she gets her ground here, she has to have a big say in things despite lacking the experience of some. Sharjah has done nothing wrong this season, winning two Grade 1 races, possibly not getting the credit her deserves for doing so. He’s a horse that enjoys 2m on a very sound surface, which would worry me slightly here. This race is run on the first day of the meeting and the ground staff always ensure the ground will be Good to Soft, even if there’s no rainfall in the lead up to the race. That said, he’s a fast-improving horse that should give it a good go in this race and possibly overpriced to do so. Melon is a lot better than he’s shown this season, and it would be no surprise to see him bounce back to form in the spring. He finished a good second in this race last season on unfavourable ground conditions, if he can recapture that form, he must have a big say. I’m starting to become a fan of Espoir D’Allen after watching him this season and there’s a lot of promise with the future in mind. He’s a horse on an upward curve, but this race might come a year too soon with no 5yo has won this race since Katchit in 2008, which has to be a big worry, but trends are there to be broken. The more I’ve looked at this race in the build-up, the more I’ve wanted to sit on the fence, but I’m going to be boring and side with current champ BUVEUR D’AIR, who looks a more backable price at present. The rumours from the Henderson stable after the Cheltenham Festival last season was that he had a few setbacks leading up to the meeting and wasn’t 100%, but that couldn’t stop him landing his second Champion Hurdle. His win in the Fighting Fifth was a brilliant performance, but he couldn’t back that up at Kempton when his jumping let him down. I can’t wait to see him in a proper run 2m hurdle with a decent size field, I think he’ll be electric. Obviously, Apple’s Jade has been outstanding this season, taking her form to a new level. She was incredible dropped back to 2m last time, pulling clear of a useful field in a very respectable time. It’ll be difficult to carry out the same tactics here and won’t want to go off to fast with Buveur D’Air in the race. She still has the option of heading to the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle.

Selection: BUVEUR D’AIR @15/8 Win

OLBG MARES' HURDLE GRADE 1

APPLE’S JADE (FR)

7 b m Saddler Maker – Apple’s For Ever Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud I think we’re beginning to run out of superlatives to describe this wonder-mare, she seems to be getting better, and better with each run. Incredibly, she’s won open Grade 1 races over 2m, 2m4f and 3m this season, an achievement that’s highly unlikely to be repeated for a while. She was arguably better than ever dropped back to 2m last time when running away with the Irish Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown. I personally think she has more than earned her place in the Champion Hurdle with her wins this season, and as a racing fan, I’d love to see her run in a that race. She would take plenty of beating in this race this season, despite failing to land the odds in the race 12-months ago.

BENIE DES DIEUX (FR) 8 b m Great Pretender – Cana Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Benie Des Dieux stayed on well up the hill to land this race 12-months ago with Apple’s Jade and La Bague Au Roi in behind. She had been applying her trade over fences beforehand, it was impressive she could revert back to hurdles for the first time for her connections to win a Grade 1. She followed up at Punchestown on her next start in very good style, with Apple’s Jade back in third. We haven’t seen her this season, but she has a good record fresh, and that might just be the key to her. She has to have a big chance.

LADY BUTTONS (GB)

9 b m Beneficial – Lady Chapp Trainer: Philip Kirby Owner: Mrs Jayne Sivills Lady Buttons has been applying her trade mainly over the fences this season, but also has two wins over hurdles to her name, including a Grade 2 on her latest start at Doncaster. Her trainer is keen to take on Altior in the Champion Chase, which will be great for that race, but she has the class to play a leading role in this field if they opt for this contest.

LAURINA (FR)

6 b m Spanish Moon – Lamboghina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Unbeaten for Willie Mullins; Laurina has looked the real deal over hurdles for her new connections, winning five-times by an aggregated winning distance of over 100-lengths. She won the Grade 2 Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in very good style last season, relishing the Soft ground. We didn’t learn a lot about her on her return at Sandown in January, but it was hard not to be impressed with the way she travelled throughout. My only worry with her would be she clearly enjoys plenty of cut in the ground, and I’m sure the ground conditions will decide her target at the Cheltenham Festival.

MIA’S STORM (IRE)

9 b m September Storm – Letitia’s Gain Trainer: Alan King Owner: The Maple Street Partnership Mia’s Storm looked a bright prospect over the larger obstacles last season before a fall in Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton seemed to knock her confidence over fences. Switched back to hurdling this season, she’s shown that her ability remains intact, winning both her starts including a Listed contest at Kempton. She might find a couple too good at this level, and might need 3m to be at her best these days.

Verdict This race has the potential to be a cracker if Apple’s Jade, Laurina and Benie Des Dieux all turned up, but with Apple’s Jade and Laurina likely to take up their entries in the Champion Hurdle (according to their connections), this looks a very good opportunity for BENIE DES DIEUX to record her second win in the race. I thought she done pretty well to win this race last season, she was held up off a slow pace and lacked the experience of some of her rivals at the top-level, but managed to find a way to win. She followed up at Punchestown with Apple’s Jade (clearly improved since), seemingly having no excuses back in third. This wouldn’t be a betting race for me from an ante-post perspective, but Benie Des Dieux gets my vote currently, but that could change. Obviously, the participation of Apple’s Jade and/or Laurina would change the complexion of the race dramatically, with the form likely to very difficult to beat on this seasons form. Lady Buttons is a grand mare, and her trainer has done a great job with her this season. I’d personally like to see her in this race, instead of playing for places behind Altior in the Champion Chase.

Selection: BENIE DES DIEUX @5/4 Win

CLOSE BROTHERS NOVICES' HANDICAP CHASE LISTED

ANY SECOND NOW (IRE) 7 b g Oscar – Pretty Neat

Trainer: T M Walsh Owner: John P McManus Any Second Now went off favourite for this contest last season, but was slightly disappointing in the testing ground conditions. He comes into this year’s meeting on a lower mark, but it’s difficult to say if he’s in better form as he had placed form behind Monalee, Invitation Only and Footpad last season. He’ll appreciate the likely sounder surface this year. He also holds an entry in the Kim Muir over the longer trip.

A PLUS TARD (FR) 5 b g Kapgarde – Turboka Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Cheveley Park Stud

This son of Kapgarde is a young chaser with a nice future ahead of him. He had some good from to his name in France last season and has continued that form for his new connections that included a win over Duc Des Genievres at Naas before finishing a good second behind Winter Escape in a Grade 3. He has plenty of experience for a 5yo.

BEN DUNDEE (IRE)

7 ch g Beneficial – Miss Dundee Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: C Jones Ben Dundee had some good form over hurdles last season and was fancied by many for the County Hurdle, but never seemed happy on the ground. He made a pleasing start to his chasing career with a good third behind stablemate Delta Work before defeat Whisperinthebreeze and Mall Dini at Punchestown by 6-lengths. He hasn’t continued that form since at a higher level, but he’ll be suited by this trip returned handicapping.

CAMPEADOR (FR)

7 gr g Gris De Gris – Royale Video Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: John P McManus Campeador possibly should have a Cheltenham Festival win to his name already, he was a last hurdle faller in the 2016 running of the Fred Winter, looking to be coming with a winning run.

That’s in the past now, and he’s looked useful over the larger obstacles in just a handful of runs, including defeating Roaring Bull in very easy fashion at Fairyhouse in December. He could be on a very attractive mark here with the step up in distance possibly bringing out further improvement.

CLONDAW CASTLE (IRE) 7 b g Oscar – Lohort Castle Trainer: Tom George Owner: J French, D McDermott, S Nelson, T Syder Clondaw Castle finds himself at the head of the market for this contest at the time of writing, and it’s easy to see why. He’s looked very good since switched to larger obstacles this season, winning his last two races in the style of a horse firmly on an upward curve. He’s yet to race beyond 2m under rules, but he did win a 3m point-to-point in good style, so this trip shouldn’t be an issue. A 10lb rise for his recent win asks a lot more of him.

GUN DIGGER (IRE)

7 ch g Stowaway – Booley Bar Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This son of Stowaway has a likeable profile with this contest in mind and he could be lurking on a potentially very good mark at present. He finished a good third behind Chris’s Dream before winning well enough at Leopardstown (flattered by winning margin), he needs plenty of respect here.

HIGHWAY ONE O ONE (IRE) 7 br g Stowaway – High Accord

Trainer: Chris Gordon Owner: Anthony Ward-Thomas Highway One O One had a progressive profile over hurdles last season and he’s built on that form this season over the larger obstacles. He performed with credit over 2m, including in Graded company behind Dynamite Dollars, but I thought he ran a nice race on his handicap chase debut last time over this C&D behind JLT Novices’ Chase bound Kildisart. He’ll have a big-weight to carry here, but he’s tough, classy and should go well.

LOUGH DERG SPIRIT (IRE) 7 b g Westerner – Sno-Cat Lady

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Grech & Parkin Lough Derg Spirit always promised that he had a big performance/handicap in him over hurdles, but he never could deliver. He’s shown he’s as good, if not even better over fences this season, winning 2 of his 3 starts over fences. He won his handicap last time in first time cheekpieces, but I don’t think that was the strongest of races and this will demand a lot more from him.

MOVEWITHTHETIMES (IRE) 8 ch g Presenting – Dare to Venure Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: John P McManus Moevwiththetimes is a talented horse on a going day, but there’s no doubt, he’s been very frustrating for his connections. He was fancied for the Plate last season at this meeting, but stumbled and had to be pulled up. He was in the process of running a nice race behind Baron Alco and Frodon here in November, but took what looked to me a tired fall at the last. He’s on a good mark at present, but needs a few things to drop right and comes with risks attached.

ROARING BULL (IRE)

6 b g Milan – Gift Of Freedom Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud It’s an old racing cliché, but what this horse achieved over hurdles last season was always going to be a bonus, he was always a real chaser in the making. He’s a son of Milan and has been wellsuited to a sound surface this season and has been progressing very well. He was a very easy 14lengths winner last time at Naas and that form looks good enough for him to have a big say here.

SHADY OPERATOR (IRE) 6 b g Court Cave – Native Artist Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus I’m a fan of this horse and I think he’ll be a Grand National horse one day. He built on his promising debut effort to get the better of Ballyward on his second outing over fences this season, despite possibly finding the ground conditions on the quick-side. I think this track will suit him well and if the ground conditions came up on the soft-side of good, he could run a big race off his current mark.

TOWER BRDIGE (IRE)

6 b g High Chaparral – Walkamia Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Tower Bridge was a Grade 1 winner over hurdles last season, but has failed to replicate that form over fences this season. This race might have been the plan for him for some time, but taking his form at face value, he needs more to have a big say in things here.

WHISPERINTHEBREEZE (IRE) 6 rg g Kayf Tara – Silver Spinner

Trainer: Mrs John Harrington Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited This son of Kayf Tara has taken his form he showed over hurdles last campaign to a new level switched chasing this season. He won a handicap chase in grand style on his latest start at Leopardstown, jumping well on the whole to record a 3-lengths win over Livelovelaugh. He’s an improving horse that should have more to come. He has a few entries at the Cheltenham Festival.

Verdict The Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase has always been a tough one to call, but it’s become even tougher since they changed it to a 0-145. Clondaw Castle won in fine style on his last start, but will need to defy a 10lb hike in the ratings in a better race on his first attempt at 2m4f. I can see the appeal with him, but he wouldn’t be for me in this. Campeador hasn’t been let in lightly by the British assessor, but he’s a talented sort, who is open to more over fences, this will also be his first attempt at this distance. Highway One O One is a tough horse that’ll run his race in this contest, but it won’t be easy off top weight. I like the look of Grade 1 hurdle winner TOWER BRIDGE, who hasn’t quite replicated that form over the larger obstacles this season. He’s totally unexposed and should have a lot more to come off this mark. The other I like is BEN DUNDEE trained by Gordon Elliott, who finished a length behind RSA Novices’ Chase favourite Delta Work on his chase debut at Down Royal, before beating Whisperinthebreeze, Mall Dini and Tower Bridge off level weights at Punchestown. I think a mark of 141 could underestimate him and he could run a nice race for Gordon Elliott. A Plus Tard still could be anything, but the Brithis handicapper has made his life tougher by giving him a mark of 144 here.

Selection: TOWER BRDIGE @12/1 Each-Way & BEN DUNDEE @20/1 Each-Way

NATIONAL HUNT AMATEUR RIDERS' NOVICES' CHASE GRADEÂ 2

BALLYWARD (IRE)

7 b g Flemensfirth – Ifyoucouldseemenow Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Andrea & Graham Wylie Ballyward is very lightly raced for his age, but that’s not a bad thing for a race of this nature. He stays, he jumps and he represents Willie Mullins and Patrick Mullins, who won this race last season with Rathvinden.

Ballyward has only ran twice over fences in public in his career, but he jumped very well on both occasions, including his latest success, beating a decent field in a Grade 2 at Naas. He has a lot of things going for him heading into this race.

BLOW BY BLOW (IRE)

8 ch g Robin Des Champs – Shean Rose Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Blow By Blow was a very impressive winner of the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap here last season, but despite winning nicely on his chasing debut, he’s looked very slow in every outing since. He’s shaped like a horse that wants seven-miles, never mind four, but he’s a Cheltenham Festival winner that hails from a stable that knows how to get one ready for this race. He’s clearly got an engine and will clearly be suited by this trip, but he has questions to answer heading into the meeting for me.

DISCORAMA (FR) 6 b g Saddler Maker – Quentala Trainer: Paul Nolan Owner: Thomas Friel & Andrew Gemmell Discorama ran a cracker at the Cheltenham Festival last season when finishing second in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap behind Blow By Blow. He won well enough on his chasing debut at Naas in November before getting a little tapped for toe upped in class on a quicker surface in the Drinmore. He was still in with a shout before falling at the last fence behind Ballyward at Naas, that form gives him a nice each/way shout with his Cheltenham experience also aiding his cause.

IMPULSIVE STAR (IRE)

9 b g Busy Flight – Impulsive Star Trainer: Neil Mulholland Owner: Robert Waley-Cohen & Men Holding Second season novice; Impulsive Star ran in this race last season when finishing fourth behind the Willie Mullins trained Rathvinden. He’s taken his form to a new level this season with a good second behind the talented Ok Corral on his return at Plumpton in December, before breaking his maiden-tag over fences at the sixth time of asking when landing the Classic Chase at Warwick in good style. Impulsive Star is still relatively lightly raced for his age and has plenty of experience under his belt. He will enjoy a sounder surface to what he encountered in this race 12-months ago.

MORTAL (IRE)

7 b g King’s Theatre – Pomme Tiepy Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Mortal has taken his form to a new level since switched to the larger obstacles this season and looks a staying chaser going places. I was impressed with him when defeating a more experienced, and race fit Any Second Now on his return/chasing-debut at Fairyhouse, over a trip shorter than ideal. I liked the way he battled that day and I thought he came away from that race with a lot of credit. Thrown into Grade 1 company on his next outing, I thought he ran a very good race to finish a good second behind Delta Work, he made a mistake at the final fence on that occasion and I believe he’d have finished a lot closer to the winner. Mortal looks an ideal type for this race and I’m sure connections this race would have been a long-term target.

MR WHIPPED (IRE)

6 br g Beneficial – Dyrick Daybreak Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Grech & Parkin Mr Whipped has been given entries in the JLT, RSA and this contest over 4m, which he looks to have a very good profile for. He’s a horse that stays very well and could take his form to a new level (which he needs to) over this sort of trip. He couldn’t be ignored if turning up here on his best efforts, which include a win over leading Stayers’ Hurdle fancy Paisley Park last season.

OK CORRAL (IRE)

9 b g Mahler – Acoola Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Ok Corral is very lightly raced for his age after suffering a few setbacks earlier in his career, but he’s always promised to be a high-class chaser. He had some good form over hurdles last season that included a useful second in the Albert Bartlett at this meeting. He’s impressed on both outings over fences this campaign, especially when landing a Listed contest under Derek O’Connor on his latest start beating three smart rivals in fine style. I thought that performance was good enough to let him take his chance in the RSA, he might have too much class for a race of this nature, and he’s definitely not short of gears.

Verdict The National Hunt Amateur Riders’ Chase is often a tricky one to call a few weeks before the race, but I think the market has the right two at the head of the betting this year, and we know who’ll be riding both. That doesn’t mean I think this will be a two-horse race by any stretch as there’s some other likeable sorts in this season’s renewal that also have some useful Cheltenham experience to their name.

Impulsive Star broke his maiden-tag over fences in game style at Warwick, relishing the sounder surface despite possibly not being suit by the track. Sam Waley-Cohen is a positive to his chances, he has experience, but I’ll be a little disappointed if he could win this. He also holds an entry in the Kim Muir (3m2f), which might prove more suitable. It would be no surprise to see Blow By Blow bounce back to his best over this distance, but he has some serious attitude questions to answer. Discorama has form that ties in with a few of these, which should give him a squeak at an each/way price, but 6yo’s have a very poor record in this. The well-bred Mortal is beginning to live up to his pedigree over the larger obstacles, and this contest has been on connections mind for some time. His win over Any Second Now and second behind Delta Work gives him sound form claims in this contest. I’ve opted for BALLYWARD here, who also looks tailormade for this stamina test. I thought he ran a cracker for a horse with little experience in the Albert Bartlett last season, and I genuinely thought he was one of the biggest eyecatchers of the meeting. He’s always looked a nice chasing type and he’s also always shaped like a horse that would be wellsuited to this race. I think he’ll take some beating for Willie and Patrick Mullins, who win this last season with Rathvinden. Nicky Henderson’s Ok Corral heads the market currently for this race, and it’s easy to see why after his impressive display at Wetherby. I thought he shaped like a highclass three-miler that day and wouldn’t disgrace himself in the RSA Novices’ Chase. He should stay the trip, but he wouldn’t be for me personally.

Selection: BALLYWARD @9/2 Win

BALLYMORE NOVICES' HURDLE GRADE 1

ANGELS BREATH (IRE)

5 gr g Shantou – Mystic Masie Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Walters Plant Hire Ltd & Ronnie Bartlett Angels Breath had a very good reputation in the point-to-point sphere prior to joining Nicky Henderson for the current season. He made his debut a winning one with a very taking victory over Danny Kirwan in a Grade 2 at Ascot. The ground was very testing on that occasion, and there were hurdles omitted, but it was a very taking debut nonetheless. He also holds an entry in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, which looks his likely target at this stage.

BATTLEOVERDOYEN (IRE) 6 b g Doyen – Battle Over

Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Battleoverdoyen has looked foot-perfect in all his career starts to date and still remains unbeaten. He’s looked very good over hurdles this season, a very easy winner on his first outing at Navan before landing a Grade 1 at Naas in good style despite making a slight mistake at the last. He’s a horse with a very bright future, and has all the right credentials to go well in a race of this nature.

BEAKSTOWN (IRE)

6 b g Stowaway – Midnight Reel Trainer: Dan Skelton Owner: Bryan Drew Beakstown has always seemingly been held in pretty high regard by his connections and he began to show why when running out a convincing winner of the Grade 2 Lemington Novices’ Hurdle at Warwick. He’s a huge horse that’ll make a very nice chaser next season, but he’s an improver that goes well on Good ground, he has to be respected.

BIRCHDALE (IRE)

5 b g Jeremy - Onewayortheother Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Birchdale looks a horse with a very bright future ahead of him and there’s no doubt that his future will be over fences in time. He was a very easy winner at Warwick on his debut, winning by 4-lengths in a race that has produced a few winners since. He was a length down in second at Cheltenham last time when the leader (Brewin’Upastorm) fell at the last and he was left with a clear lead to record a large margin win. I personally think he’d have been beaten on that occasion, but we’ll never know. He also holds an entry in the Albert Bartlett, which going by the current betting, looks his likely target.

BREWIN’UPASTORM (IRE) 6 b g Milan – Daraheen Diamond

Trainer: Olly Murphy Owner: Mrs Barbara Hester I’ve always been a huge fan of this son of Milan since he landed his point-topoint at Quakerstown, and he’s done extremely well under rules since. He won in good style at Huntingdon despite Olly Murphy reporting he’d need the outing before running creditably in a messy renewal of the Grade 1 Challow Hurdle behind Champ. I thought he’d have recorded a good win last time at Cheltenham over Birchdale, but jumping is the name of the game and he fell at the last when in control. He’s a horse that’ll make a lovely chaser next season, but has the class to play a leading role here.

CITY ISLAND (IRE)

6 b g Court Cave – Victorine Trainer: Martin Brassil Owner: Mrs Bernardine Mulryan City Island looks a very smart prospect for Martin Brassil, winning all three of his starts over hurdles (subsequently disqualified at Galway) in very good style. He was a long odds-on shot to win at Naas last time, but he won as an odds-on shot should, effortlessly pulling 7-lengths clear.

He really could be anything and is a dark horse amongst the entries for this race. There’s no doubting that he’d be a lot shorter in the betting if he was trained by Mullins/Elliott. He has to be respected.

CHAMP (IRE)

7 b g King’s Theatre – China Sky Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Champ has looked one of the best UK novice hurdle prospects heading to the Cheltenham Festival, and on ratings, he sets a very good standard to aim at in this contest. He built on his three previous victories to land a good renewal of the Grade 1 Challow Novices’ Hurdle. It was a slowly run race, which possibly didn’t play to his strengths, but he put the race to bed in good style after the last. His biggest asset seems to be his quick and efficient hurdling technique, which will be a good asset to have around Cheltenham. He sets the standard.

CHAMPAGNE PLATINUM (IRE) 5 gr g Stowaway – Saffron Holly

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Champagne Platinum has looked very smart in both his starts for Nicky Henderson this season, winning comfortably on debut at Newcastle before recording a very good win at Newbury in a race his trainer has unleashed some very smart types in over the years. This horse may lack the experience of some of these, but I think he’s one with a lot of natural talent, he easily could surprise a few here. He also holds an entry in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle.

KLASSICAL DREAM (FR)

5 b g Dream Well – Klassical Way Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs Joanne Coleman Klassical Dream had some useful form in France for his previous yard prior to joining Willie Mullins team, with his best effort a good fourth in the Grade 1 Prix Cambaceres at Auteuil behind the very talented Master Dino. He broke his maiden-tag over hurdles in good style at Leopardstown, he wasn’t fluent over the last, but he kept on well. Klassical Dream followed up in tenacious fashion on his next start in the Grade 1 Chanelle Pharma Novice Hurdle over the same C&D, battling back after being headed to narrowly deny his stablemate Aramon. The extra distance could suit him here.

Verdict Brewin’Upastorm is a horse I love and I’d love to see him land this contest, especially after taking a tumble with victory almost certain last time. He’s a lovely prospect for chasing next season and everything he does over hurdles will have been a bonus to his connections. He has the ability to have a big say in the finish and shouldn’t be underestimated. Klassical Dream also has an entry in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle over 2m, but I thought he shaped like he needed further when winning a Grade 1 at Leopardstown last time. He has to be respected if running in this contest for Willie Mullins. The Challow Hurdle Champ won was a messy race and the form has sent out mixed messages since, but there’s no doubt he’s a high-class individual, but I’ll take him on at his current price. I like the look of BATTLEOVERDOYEN currently, who looks open to plenty more improvement. Connections won this with Samcro last season, who had more experience that this horse, but he was pitched into a Grade 1 on his second start over hurdles, which tells you how well thought of this son of Doyen is. City Island has done nothing wrong and it would be no surprise to see him run a big race for his connections. Angels Breath will definitely stay this far, but it’s looking likely he’ll take up his engagement in the Supreme at this stage, but that could change, especially if his owner wants to split him and Al Dancer up.

Selection: BATTLEOVERDOYEN @5/1 Win

RSA NOVICES' CHASE GRADE 1

CHRIS’S DREAM (IRE) 7 b g Mahler – Janebailey

Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Robcour Chris’s Dream was a very progressive novice hurdle prospect last season for his connections, but failed to live up to expectations in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle. I think he’s looked even better over the larger obstacles this season, winning two of his three outings, including a Grade 2 win over Champagne Classic in game style last time. He holds entries in both the JLT Novices’ Chase and RSA Novices’ Chase, I’m sure ground conditions will decide where they go with him at Cheltenham. His jumping looks his biggest asset.

DELTA WORK (FR)

6 br g Network – Robbe Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Delta Work was a narrow winner of the Pertemps Network Handicap Hurdle last season at the Cheltenham Festival and bids to achieve what Presenting Percy did 12-months ago by landing this contest in the following season. This son of Network has looked a natural over the larger obstacles this season, which have included Grade 1 wins over 2m4f and 3m. His win in the Drinmore has worked out nicely with the second (Le Richebourg) going on to land a Grade 1 on his next start. Delta Work looks tailormade for this race with his previous Cheltenham Festival form a huge positive to his chances. He’s the big Irish hope heading into the meeting and looks the one they’ve got to beat.

OK CORRAL (IRE)

9 b g Mahler – Acoola Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Ok Corral is very lightly raced for his age after suffering a few setbacks earlier in his career, but he’s always promised to be a high-class chaser. He had some good form over hurdles last season that included a useful second in the Albert Bartlett at this meeting. He’s impressed on both outings over fences this campaign, especially when landing a Listed contest on his latest start beating three smart rivals in fine style. I thought that performance was good enough to let him take his chance in the RSA Novices’ Chase, but he’s the current favourite for the National Hunt Chase over 4m. I think he might have too much class for a race of this nature, and he’s definitely not short of gears.

ON THE BLIND SIDE (IRE) 7 b g Stowaway – Such A Set Up

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: A D Spence On The Blind Side was a useful novice last season over hurdles, winning three-times, including a Grade 2 at Sandown by 9-lengths. He disappointed went sent off the 6/5 favourite for the Grade 1 Mersey Novices’ Hurdle at Aintree, but I think the ground was a valid excuse on that occasion.

He jumped very poorly on his chase debut at Cheltenham, but that was against horses with a lot more experience, and he possibly found the trip sharp enough. He got back in the winning grove on his second start at Kempton, being suited by the step up to 3m, he defeated a useful type by over 3-lengths. I think this race might just come too soon in his chasing career, but he’s clearly a horse with a bright prospect in staying chases.

SANTINI (GB) 7 b g Milan – Tinagoodnight Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Mr & Mrs R Kelvin-Hughes Santini was a useful horse over timber last season, with a win in the Grade 1 Doom Bar Sefton Novices’ Hurdle amongst his successes but he’d always had that ‘chaser in the making’ outlook to him. He made a very pleasing winning debut over fences in a Grade 2 at Newbury, a race that produced a future Grade 2 winner in the shape of Rocky’s Treasure. He failed to live up to market expectations on his next start in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase but I thought he ran a lovely race that day and performed with great credit. The C&D wouldn’t have been ideal for him and he looked to get outpaced before staying on well in the closing stages. That experience won’t be lost on him, and he deserves his place towards the top of the betting for this race.

TOPOFTHEGAME (IRE)

7 ch g Flemensfirth – Derry Vale Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Chris Giles & Mr & Mrs P K Barber Topofthegame remarkably finished second on his chase debut behind subsequent Grade 1 winner Defi Du Seuil after conceding close to 25-lengths at the start. He travelled like the winner in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton, but found the tough La Bague Au Roi too good on the day. Topofthegame is very lightly raced for his age and there’s undoubtedly more to come from him over fences. He holds entries in both the JLT Novices’ Chase and RSA Novices’ Chase, connections seem to be preferring the latter at this stage, but that could change if the ground came up testing.

VINNDICATION (IRE)

6 b g Vinnie Roe – Pawnee Trail Trainer: Kim Bailey Owner: Moremoneythan Vinndication lost his unbeaten record in the Grade 1 Scilly Isles last time at Sandown behind Defi Du Seuil and Lostintranslation, but I thought it was a very good effort in defeat. He shaped like a horse that was badly in need of a step up to 3m on that occasion, which he’ll get if connections give him the green light to contest this contest. My big concern with this horse is that he’s only raced going right-handed to date, and he did tend to jump out to his right last time. He’s a horse with plenty of talent, but he wouldn’t be for me in this.

Verdict I’ve changed my mind on this event plenty of times in recent weeks, and there’s no doubt this is more open than the market may suggest. Santini is a horse I’ve always admired, but I’ve come to the conclusion that two runs over fences in public just isn’t enough for him. He’s a horse with a lot of ability, but I just think at this moment in time, with everything that has gone on with ground/flu this season, I couldn’t back him for this race, as I’m sure Nicky Henderson would have loved to have got another run into him since Boxing Day. I thought Topofthegame was going to win by half the track at Kempton on Boxing Day, but he bumped into a very tough mare on that occasion and lost nothing in defeat. I thought he was a thorough stayer, but you could argue he was outstayed last time at Kempton over an easy 3m. I’d personally prefer to see him in the JLT Novices’ Chase, which looks a winnable race at this stage and you could ride him positively, but he’s clearly respected in this contest. On The Blind Side looked as if he was going to be a real star at some point, but he hasn’t exactly done the things connection may have hoped. That maybe a harsh assessment of him, but he’ll need a lot more here, and he can’t be getting outpaced coming down the hill if he’s going to land a blow in this. I just can’t oppose last season’s Pertemps Network Final winner DELTA WORK, who ticks plenty of boxes for this contest. He has Grade 1 winning form over 2m4f/3m this season and has plenty of experience under his belt. He’s proven he’s versatile regards ground conditions this season and should take plenty of beating. Ok Corral looks as if he’ll be tackling 4m in the National Hunt Chase on the Tuesday, but If he ran in this, I think he’d more than run his race. I was really impressed with him at Warwick when we last season him, that can be a sharpish track on decent ground and he travelled and jumped beautifully.

Selection: DELTA WORK @7/2 Win

CORAL CUP HANDICAP HURDLE GRADEÂ 3

ACAPELLA BOURGEOIS (FR) 9 ch g Network – Jasmine

Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Slaneyville Syndicate Acapella Bourgeois holds a couple of entries over hurdles at the Cheltenham Festival, including in this contest. We haven’t seen him for 423-days, but on the pick of his best form over fences, he could be a very well handicapped horse. First time out might be the best time to catch him, but this won’t be easy.

APPLE’S SHAKIRA (FR)

5 b m Saddler Maker – Apple’s For Ever Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Apple’s Shakira is possibly more well-known for being the full-sister to the brilliant Apple’s Jade than for what she has achieved on the track herself. She looked to have the world at her feet as a juvenile, but has seemingly regressed since her defeat in a weak renewal of the Triumph Hurdle.

She holds an entry in a few races at the meeting, if she can recapture her best form, she’s well enough handicapped to run a nice race.

BALLYANDY (GB)

8 b g Kayf Tara – Megalex Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies Owner: Options O Syndicate 2016 Champion Bumper winner; Ballyandy has been a grand horse for his connections, remarkably never being out of the first four on all completed starts. He’s done well since switched back hurdling, he has Cheltenham Festival experience and could still have more to give off his current mark.

BRIO CONTI (FR)

8 gr g Dom Alco – Cadoulie Wood Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: The Gi Gi Syndicate Brio Conti is a very smart horse that I don’t think we’ve seen the best of yet. He built on his below par return at Sandown in testing ground conditions to win next time at Ascot. I was there that day and I thought he still looked on the big side in the paddock and he should come on for that run again. I think a 5lb rise for his recent win his fair.

CRACKING SMART (FR)

7 b g Great Pretender – Maya Du Frene Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Cracking Smart was the ante-post favourite for the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle last season, but a late setback forced him miss the meeting. He’s been a little disappointing this season in Graded company, but he’s a lot better than he showed on each occasion. His mark demands more and he may need plenty of cut in the ground.

EARLY DOORS (FR)

6 b g Soldier Of Fortune - Ymlaen Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Early Doors was a Grade 3 winner last season before finishing second in a Grade 1 behind Mengli Khan. He ran a cracker behind Blow By Blow in the Martin Pipe last season, finishing third in what looked a good renewal of the race. He’s proved disappointing this season in Grade 1 company, but he did manage to finish second (would have been third without Faugheen falling) behind Apple’s Jade when we last seen him in the Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown. He should have plenty more to come.

ECLAIR DE BEAUFEU (FR)

5 b g Monitor Closley – Tenebreuse Gemm Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This son of Monitor Closley is very experienced for his age and has some very good pieces of for to his name this season. He was a very good fourth in a hot handicap at Leopardstown last time, behind plenty of horses fancied for Cheltenham Festival glory. He will relish a step up in distance and it’ll be interesting to see where he’ll end up, as he’s not certain to get into this contest.

ERICK LE ROUGE (FR)

5 ch g Gentlewave – Imperia II Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams Owner: Mrs Jane Williams Erick Le Rouge has been a revelation this season, winning all 4 of his starts, all under 7lb conditional Chester Williams. Up 3lb for his most recent win at Kempton, only a fool would rule out further improvement from this this horse and he needs plenty of respect from a stable that do well in these Cheltenham Festival handicaps.

GETAWAY TRUMP (IRE) 6 b g Getaway – Acinorev

Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Owners Group 023 Getaway Trump looks a novice on an upward curve, winning 2 of his first 3 starts, before finishing a good second in the Grade 1 Challow Hurdle behind. I thought he ran well in the rescheduled Betfair Hurdle at Ascot, finishing a good fourth behind Al Dancer, shaping as if a return to 2m4f was needed. I’m not sure Cheltenham is the plan for this horse, but he’ll need plenty of respect if showing up.

GO ANOTHER ONE (IRE) 7 b g Stowaway – Missusan

Trainer: John C McConnell Owner: Ms Caroline Ahearn Improver; Go Another One has been a model of consistency this season for his connection. He was a very impressive winner of a handicap at Kelso in September, backing up that effort with a good second behind in a novice hurdle over this C&D on his next start. He warmed up for this meeting with a good win in Grade 3 company at Thurles. He’ll likely get a small rise for that success, but he could have more to come. Not discounted.

HIGHEST SUN (FR)

5 b g Sunday Break – Highest Price Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Ashley Head Highest Sun ran a nice race on his British debut at Ascot behind two smart types, he failed to build on that run on his handicap debut at Cheltenham, but he did bump into the very smart and well-handicapped Al Dancer that day. I thought he was rather impressive at Chepstow last time, but this will demand a lot more. Unexposed.

JEZKI (FR) 11 b g Milan – La Noire Trainer: Mrs John Harrington Owner: John P McManus 2014 Champion Hurdle winner; Jezki has been a legend for his connections and despite not retaining all of his ability, he’s still shown the fire is still burning this season. He ran a nice race in the Ladbrokes Hurdle under Darragh O’Keeffe in February, seemingly getting a little outpaced at the finish. This trip will be more suitable.

OFF YOU GO (IRE)

6 b g Presenting – Ozzy Oscar Trainer: C Byrnes Owner: John P McManus Off You Go heads the betting for this contest at the ante-post stage, and it’s easy to see why. He’s improved nicely through the handicap ranks in recent seasons, winning 4 of his last 6 outings, including the valuable Ladbrokes Hurdle at Leopardstown in February. His new mark will demand more from this son of Presenting, but he might just have it in his locker.

RHINESTONE (IRE)

6 b g Montjeu – Apticanti Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Rhinestone has built on the form he showed in bumpers last season over hurdles this campaigning, winning narrowly on his hurdling debut at Naas, before finishing a good second in a Grade 1 at Leopardstown in February. He holds entries in the 2m5f/3m Graded races, but he might be on a lenient handicap mark and it would prove significant if connections take advantage of that.

THE STORYTELLER (IRE) 8 ch g Shantou – Bally Bolshoi

Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Mrs P Sloan Connections state the Ryanair Chase is the plan for this horse, but he holds a few entries at the Cheltenham Festival, and is worth a mention here. He’s attractively handicapped over hurdles on his best form, including a win at this meeting last season over fences. He’s a horse that will have to be feared if rerouted here.

URADEL (GER)

8 b g Kallisto – Unavita Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Luke McMahon Uradel is unexposed over hurdles and has shaped like a horse that can run a big race in one of these spring handicaps. His mark has plenty of scope for improvement, especially if you compare it to his Flat rating, which has risen to 102. I thought he ran a very nice race in the Ladbrokes Hurdle at Leopardstown, finishing fifth behind Off You Go. He wouldn’t certain to make the cut for this contest, but he has plenty of options at the meeting.

VISION DES FLOS (FR) 6 b g Balko – Marie Royale Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited Vision Des Flos has some very useful for to his name in defeat and victory. He won nicely last time in the National Spirit at Fontwell, defeating If The Cap Fits by over 1-length. I think he’s the type that could go well in a race of this nature, but my only concern would be, this will be his seventh race of the season and he hasn’t exactly had any easy assignments.

Verdict I don’t have a strong view on this contest at this stage, but I’ll try and give my thoughts on the race at this moment in time. Uradel would be my selection if I knew he would get a run, but it’ll be quite unlikely he will and would be more likely to run in the Martin Pipe on the Friday. Off You Go needs a lot more off his new mark, but you can never rule a Charles Byrne runner out of a handicap, it would be no surprise if he had more up his sleeve. Vision Des Flos warmed up for this race with a good win at Fontwell last time, admittedly this asks a different question of him, but he’s been running well in Graded races this season and he might find this easier. At this stage I’m going to side with EARLY DOORS, who has been competing in a lot better company than this recently. He was travelling very well in the Martin Pipe last season, but had too much to do on the ground and couldn’t sustain his effort. He’s potentially on a good mark and I can see him running a nice race in this. Brio Conti still looked in need of the run last time at Ascot, but still managed to battle on well to win. A 5lb rise for that narrow success looks fair enough, but it would be no surprise to see him go well.

Selection: EARLY DOORS @25/1 Each-Way

BETWAY QUEEN MOTHER CHAMPION CHASE GRADE 1

ALTIOR

(IRE) 9 b g High Chaparral – Monte Solaro Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Mrs Patricia Pugh There’s not a lot more you can say about Altior apart from the fact he’s outstanding, and the best National Hunt horse in training. He looked in serious trouble in this race 12-months ago, but found a way to win despite things going against him, like the true champion he is. It’s a horse race, and a lot can go wrong, but on paper this will be his to lose.

FOOTPAD

(FR) 7 b g Creachadoir – Willamina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Footpad was a good winner of the Arkle Novices’ Chase last season, and he looked to have the world at his feet over fences, but has disappointed on both his starts this season. He looked beaten when falling behind Saint Calvados at Naas on his return, subsequently found to have suffered an overreach injury during that race. He travelled and jumped a lot better at Leopardstown over Christmas, but possibly just needed that race, getting tired late on. He has the option of avoiding Altior and heading for the Ryanair Chase over 2m4f, which is possibly the wise call.

LADY BUTTONS

(GB) 9 b m Beneficial – Lady Chop Trainer: Philip Kirby Owner: Mrs Jayne Sivills

Lady Buttons has been applying her trade mainly over the fences this season, but also has two wins over hurdles to her name, including a Grade 2 on her latest start at Doncaster. Her trainer is keen to take on Altior in this contest, which will be great for that race, but she’ll likely be fighting out for the places here.

MIN

(FR) 8 b g Walk In The Park – Phemyka Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Min and his connections must be sick of the site of Altior, they’d be a Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and Champion Chase winner if it wasn’t for the son of High Chaparral and it’s difficult to see him reversing previous for with him here. He’s been in good form this season winning the John Durkan over 2m4f, before following up in the Dublin Chase at Leopardstown last month. Min will likely be avoiding Altior this season and run in the Ryanair Chase, which he’ll be a relatively short price for.

SCEAU ROYAL

(FR) 7 b g Doctor Dino – Sandside Trainer: Alan King Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede On his day, on his ground, Sceau Royal is a very good horse. He jumped like a demon when landing the Grade 2 Shloer Chase on his reappearance earlier in the season, defeating Grade 1 winner Simply Ned by over 2-lengths. No match for Altior on his next start, I think the ground conditions just weren’t to his liking, and he’s a much better horse on a sound surface. He looked in need of the run when given a spin over hurdles last time at Wincanton and that would have been a good pipe-opener. I think this horse will run a big race here, he’d be one to be interested in at an each/way price.

SIMPLY NED

(IRE) 12 ch g Fruits Of Love – Bishops Las Trainer: Nicky Richards Owner: David & Nicky Robinson Simply Ned has been a grand servant to his connections winning two Grade 1 races in the last two seasons as a veteran beating Footpad and Min. He hasn’t won in the UK since landing a handicap chase at Kelso in 2015, but did run a good race behind Sceau Royal over this C&D in November. His win at Leopardstown over Christmas has booked his ticket for this race, but it’s likely he’ll find a couple too good.

Verdict Obviously, like last season, this race will revolve around Altior, who bids to make it 18 wins in a row and land a second Champion Chase win. He’s an exceptional horse that doesn’t do anything flashy, he should take this comfortably, but I would rather be watching and cheering him on than backing at his current price. Footpad and Min would need respect if showing up but both look likely to run in the Ryanair Chase over 2m4f at this stage, but as we know, Willie Mullins is known for changing his mind and keeping his options open leading up to the meeting and there has been a few whispers of late that Min will be heading for this contest. I’m going to side with SCEAU ROYAL here in the Betting without Altior market or each/way. He looked very good when landing the Grade 2 Shloer Chase over this C&D earlier in the season under his ideal conditions, before disappointing on ground softer than ideal at Sandown on his last start. He’s a horse with a very good record fresh and enjoys some spring ground, I think he’s a solid place contender. You have to admire the connections of Lady Buttons for potentially having a crack at this race, especially with the OLBG Mares’ Hurdle as a more conventional option. She’s more than capable of grabbing a place on her best form. If this race was run at Leopardstown, Simply Ned would come into the reckoning, he’s a grand horse that needs to back-up his excellent previous win.

Selection: SCEAU ROYAL @11/2 Betting w/o Altior & 16/1 Each-Way

GLENFARCLAS CROSS COUNTRY CHASE CLASS 2

AUVERGNAT (FR)

9 b g Della Francesca - Hesmeralda Trainer: E Bolger Owner: John P McManus Auvergnat has had a good season already for his connections, effortlessly landing the valuable Paddy Power Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas. He’s a horse that has a good level of form in cross-country races, mainly at Punchestown, but he’s finished fourth in this race the last couple of seasons. He’s a horse in good form at present and has to be respected.

BLESS THE WINGS (IRE) 14 b g Winged Love – Silva Venture Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Adrian Butler/S P O’Connor Bless The Wings is a remarkable horse that has been an incredible horse for his connections. He’s a 14yo now, but he had an excellent 2017/18 season that included a win over this C&D and a fine third in the Aintree Grand National. It’s hard to see him landing this, but he’ll undoubtedly give it a good go, age is just a number, after-all.

FACT OF THE MATTER (IRE)

9 b g Brian Boru – Womanofthemountain Trainer: Jamie Snowden Owner: The Sandylini Racing Partnership This horse was beginning to lose his way over fences/hurdles last season, but has been rejuvenated this season, like many have in the past, by the switch to the unique test of crosscountry races. He built on his extremely promising effort behind Josies Orders over this C&D in November to reverse the form a month later. That was only a handicap and he’ll find life a lot tougher in this open company, but he’s a horse that can only improve with more experience in this sphere.

JOSIES ORDERS (IRE)

11 b g Milan – Silent Orders Trainer: E Bolger Owner: John P McManus Josies Orders won this race in 2016 after first passed the post Any Currency was disqualified for a banned substance. He’s not getting any younger, but he’s been in good form this season, landing a C&D handicap in November, before staying on well to win a cross country chase at Punchestown last time. He’s likely to find a few too good, but he’ll give it a good go.

MY HOMETOWN (IRE) 9 b g Presenting - Amathea Trainer: E Bolger Owner: John P McManus My Hometown is another that has been transformed by a switch to this unique test, winning effortlessly at Punchestown before running a creditable race in second over this C&D in December behind Fact Of The Matter. He was receiving 9lbs on that occasion, and will find life tough trying to reverse that form, especially with the winner also an improving type.

TIGER ROLL (IRE)

9 b g Authorized – Swiss Roll Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud There’s not a lot more you can say about this horse, he’s been an outstanding horse for his connections, a three-time Cheltenham Festival winner and an Aintree Grand National hero, not bad a bad CV for a horse that was bred to do a job on the Flat. He won this race in very good style last season and looks to have an outstanding chance of making it back-to-back wins in the race.

He won a Grade 2 Hurdle over 2m5f in his prep run in effortless fashion. He’ll take some beating here.

Verdict Auvergnat comes into this contest in better form than previous seasons and his record in these races speaks for itself. His win in the Paddy Power Chase at Christmas looks a strong piece of form, if he can repeat that effort here, he has to run a big race. Josies Orders isn’t getting any younger and has only managed to win this race after Any Currency was disqualified in 2016. He’s in good heart this campaign, but I’d be a little surprised if he could land this. It’s pretty difficult to oppose the remarkable TIGER ROLL, who continues defy logic. He’s been an outstanding horse for his connections winning three-times at the Cheltenham Festival and landing the Grand National last year, he arguably ran a career best last time at Navan, that should put him spot on for this contest. He looks one of the bankers of the meeting. You’ll hardly get rich backing him at his current price, so I’ll put up an each/way alternative, I think the Jamie Snowden trained Fact Of The Matter could run a nice race in this contest. He’s only had two previous runs over this C&D, albeit in handicap company, he finished first and second. This will be a lot tougher out of handicap company, but he could have a lot more to give.

Selection: TIGER ROLL @11/10 Win

BOODLES FRED WINTER JUVENILE HANDICAP HURDLE GRADE 3

ADJALI (FR) 4 b g Kamsin – Anabasis Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Adjali showed a useful level of form for Guillaume Macaire in France before making a very impressive winning British debut at Market Rasen by 13-lengths. He found the more experienced Quel Destin too tough at Chepstow in Grade 1 company on his next start, but that was still a good effort in defeat. He was no match for Fakir D’oudairies under a 5lb penalty last time, but I think he’s better than he showed on that occasion.

BAND OF OUTLAWS (IRE)

4 b g Fast Company – Band Of Colour Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: J Carthy Band Of Outlaws had some useful form on the Flat for connections (rated 93), before successfully applying his trade over obstacles this season. He’s won 2 of his 3 starts over hurdles, including an above average contest last time at Naas in grand style, quickening nicely clear off the slow gallop.

He has the option of running in this contest or the Triumph Hurdle, but it will all depend what rating the British/Irish handicappers give him for his achievements to date. He might find the Triumph Hurdle a step too far.

BELARGUS (FR) 4 b g Authorized – Belga Wood Trainer: Nick Gifford Owner: John P McManus Two-time winner on the Flat in France; this son of Authorized hasn’t exactly pulled up any trees on his three runs over hurdles for Nick Gifford this season, but he did win in the style of an improver at Ascot on his latest start. The form of that win hasn’t exactly worked out, but his opening handicap mark has scope for improvement.

CHIEF JUSTICE (GB)

4 b g Acclamation – Freedom Pass Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Chief Justice wasn’t exactly bred to do this job, but he’s shown a good-level of form over hurdles for his new connections. It’s hard to say if he’s well handicapped of his current mark, but he’s a horse with the ability and experience to do well in a race of this nature.

COEUR SUBLIME (IRE)

4 b g Elusive Pimpernel – Love Knot Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: C Jones Coeur Sublime sole run on the Flat was a victory over subsequent Listed winner and St Leger third Southern France. He was possibly unlucky not to land a Grade 2 at Leopardstown on Boxing Day, falling at the last when making good headway. He didn’t exactly back that effort up last time, but it’s possible he might have needed the run on that occasion. He could be on a workable mark.

FINE BRUNELLO (FR)

4 b g Al Namix – Sweet Brune Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Winner on the Flat in France; Fine Brunello has run two fair races in defeat behind stablemates for his new connections. Fourth behind Band Of Outlaws on ground possibly a lot softer than ideal before chasing home the impressive Fakir D’oudairies at Cheltenham. He needs more if he’s going to land a real blow here.

FANFAN DU SEUIL (FR) 4 b g Racinger – Nina Du Seuil Trainer: Tom George Owner: Crossed Fingers Partnership Winner in France; Fanfan Du Seuil was in the process of running a nice race on his British debut at Chepstow, but a clumsy jump two out put him on the deck. He made amends for that when winning nicely at Exeter next time, pulling 5-lengths clear of the useful Our Power. I think he should have won at Cheltenham on his next start, but was still rather green when in front. He seems the type that’ll be suited by a strong gallop.

FRIEND OR FOE (FR)

4 b g Walk In The Park - Mandchou Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Gordon & Su Hall Friend Or Foe ran two OK races for Emmanuel Clayeux in France before landing a Taunton contest on his British/Stable debut in December. The winner of that contest hasn’t exactly boosted the form since, but he’s unexposed and there could be more to come from this son of Walk In The Park

GARDENS OF BABYLON (IRE) 4 b g Camelot – Condition

Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus

Gardens Of Babylon has shown arguably some of the best pieces of form of any of the runners in this contest and thoroughly deserves his place at the head of the betting. He was no match for his stablemate Sir Erec on his latest outing, but that was still a good effort in defeat and he should still have more to come.

KONITHO (GER) 4 gr g Konig Turf – Haute Chartreuse Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Konitho ran out an impressive winner on his stable debut at Naas in January, but failed to confirm the promise of that victory when a disappointing fifth last time over the same C&D. I don’t think he was suited to the slow pace on that occasion and a strongly run affair like this could bring out the best in him. He’s an intriguing runner and it’ll be interesting to see what mark the British accessor gives him.

LETHAL STEPS (GB)

4 gr g Lethal Force – Tanda Tula Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Lethal Steps was an expensive 300,000gns purchase, but I think it’s fair to say, he hasn’t exactly lived up to his price tag over hurdles this season for his connections. He was a 102-rated horse on the Flat and if he can build on his three efforts over hurdles, he could become a very well handicapped horse. He wouldn’t be for me.

OI THE CLUB OI’S (GB) 4 gr g Champs Elysees – Red Boots Trainer: Ian Williams Owner: The Albatross Club This son of Champs Elysees didn’t exactly pull up any trees on the Flat (still unexposed), but he’s looked a nice prospect over hurdles this campaign despite not yet getting his head in front. He’s bumped into a couple of smart rivals, including Grade 1 winner Quel Destin. His mark of 130 isn’t exactly lenient, but he’s a tough sort that’ll enjoy this stiffer track.

OUR POWER (IRE)

4 b g Power – Scripture Trainer: Alan King Owner: Walters Plant Hire & James & Jean Potter I always fear Alan King juvenile hurdlers and this horse could still have more to come. He was a useful sort on that Flat, but has looked even better over hurdles, winning 2 of his 4 starts, including a 4-lengths win over Style De Vole. He was no match for a Fakir D’oudairies at Cheltenham last time, but that experience won’t be lost on him.

SURIN (FR) 4 b f Authorized – Sinopsy Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud I like this filly; She ran a nice race on her hurdling debut when second behind Gardens Of Babylon at Punchestown, before reversing that form on 5lb better terms on her next start at Fairyhouse.

This daughter of Authorized was no match for Triumph Hurdle favourite Sir Erec upped to Grade 1 company on her next start, but she ran a nice race in third. She’s very closely matched with Gardens Of Babylon on form and there should be more to come from her.

Verdict This contest is always a difficult one to call from a preview perspective, as we seen last year with Veneer Of Charm, but we’ll give it a whirl. Joseph O’Brien has dominated the juvenile hurdling scene in Ireland this season and looks to have an extremely strong hand in this and the Triumph Hurdle this year. Band Of Outlaws, Gardens Of Babylon and Fine Brunello all look to have solidclaims in this contest if turning up, with slight preference to the latter, who was no match for his stable mate here last time, but with this race in mind, that was a good trial. Fanfan Du Seuil and Friend Or Foe are both interesting lightly raced types that have good profiles for this contest. It’s difficult to split them on form, but Fanfan Du Seuil does have the benefit of course experience, which is never a bad thing. The Gordon Elliott/Cheveley Park Stud link-up has already been seen to good effect this season, most notably with exciting prospects Malone Road and Envoi Allen.

They have some nice types entered in this, including 300,000gns purchase Lethal Steps, who will look a relatively good buy if he can land this. I’m going to side with the filly SURIN for Gordon Elliott, who has shown some good form this season. She is weighted to reverse form with Gardens Of Babylon, and just strikes me as a type that has more to come.

Selection: SURIN @14/1 Each-Way

WEATHERBYS CHAMPION BUMPER GRADEÂ 1

ABACADABRAS (FR)

5 b g Davidoff – Cadoubelle Des As Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Workmanlike winner on debut; form of that race isn’t too bad. He looked to be in the process of running a nice race in a Grade 2 bumper last time, but ran green and crashed through rails. He looks to have a bright future and there should be more to come.

ASK FOR GLORY (IRE)

5 b g Fame And Glory – Ask Helen Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Colm Donlon & Mr & Mrs P K Barber This son of Fame And Glory created a very good impression when landing his point-to-point last season and was subsequently sold for £280,000. He proved that was no fluke when bolting up in a Chepstow bumper on his rules debut by 13-lengths. The form of that race wouldn’t excite you, but it was a victory very easy on the eye. Paul Nicholls seems very keen to run this horse, which could look significant.

BLUE SARI (FR) 4 b g Saddex – Blue Aster Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: M L Bloodstock Ltd It was difficult not to be impressive with this horse on his debut when running away with a Gowran Park Bumper. I found it interesting he went off 15/8 as his stables bumper winners are often sent off odds-on, so it’s difficult to say if that performance was expected. He’s clearly a horse with a lot of ability, but he’s only had one run and the last 4yo to win this was Cue Card.

EDEN DU HOUX (FR)

5 b g Irish Wells – Maralypha Trainer: David Pipe Owner: Prof Caroline Tisdall This horse won very nicely on his stable/rules debut at Plumpton, confirming to promise he showed when winning his point-to-point last season. I’ve always been a fan of the Listed bumper this horse won at Ascot and it often produces some nice types. All his wins to date have come in Soft ground, but I don’t see a sounder surface being a problem.

ENVOI ALLEN (FR) 5 b g Muhtathir – Reaction Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Cheveley Park Stud Envoi Allen is undoubtedly a horse with a very big future and he’s looked good in his bumper wins this season. He came with a big reputation and an even bigger price tag, but it’s fair to say, he’s looked money well spent. I personally see him as a ‘chaser in the making’ (excuse the cliché) and wouldn’t exactly call him a ‘bumper horse’, but his class and experience is there to be seen and that might count for a lot this season.

GLORY AND FORTUNE (IRE)

4 b g Fame And Glory – Night Heron Trainer: Tom Lacey Owner: J Hinds Tom Lacey has had some very nice bumper winners this season, but it looks as if this son of Fame And Glory will be his Champion Bumper runner. He was a nice winner of a Listed 1m6f bumper on his racecourse debut in January and shaped as if the step up to 2m would bring out further improvement, but his lack of experience and age is enough to put me off him here.

MASTER DEBONAIR (GB)

5 br g Yeats – Swincombe Flame Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Sprayclad UK This son of Yeats built on his two previous efforts to narrowly land a Listed bumper over this C&D in November, but I’m not too convinced that’s the best form on offer here. That said, he’s entitled to come on for that, but it’s also a little concerning we haven’t seen him since that win.

METICULOUS (IRE)

5 b g Fame And Glory – Refinement Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: Michael Tabor Very impressive winner on debut; this son of Fame And Glory didn’t exactly build on that effort when disappointing on his next start at Leopardstown, but he did bounce back in grand style when finishing an excellent second behind Envoi Allen at Leopardstown last time. He needs more if he’s going to land this contest, but he could have it in his locker.

Verdict I have no doubt that this race has the right favourite currently at the top of the betting in Envoi Allen, and I’m personally a big fan of his, but he’s not your typical Champion Bumper horse. He’s a big, raw chasing type that’ll want a trip in future and I’ll happily take him on at his current price.

The participation of Ask For Glory is yet to be confirmed, but his trainer seems keen for him to take his chance, which could prove pretty significant. The form of his win at Chepstow wouldn’t get you excited by any means, but it was visually very impressive and would need respect if showing up here. No 4yo has won this race since Cue Card in 2010, Blue Sari and Glory And Fortune look to change that this season. Blue Sari looks Willie Mullins main hope this season to give him a tenth win in the race, he looked very good on his debut at Gowran Park, but he’ll undoubtedly need a lot more if he’s going to win this, and is priced on potential. Tom Lacey has an almost ‘freakish’ record in National Hunt Flat races this season, and I suppose he could have run a few in this, Glory And Fortune was a good winner at Cheltenham on his debut and should have more to come, but he’ll need it if he’s going to get competitive. David Pipe and Professor Caroline Tisdall teamed up to win this contest in 2015 with Moon Racer and I’m hoping EDEN DU HOUX can give them another win in the race this season. He won nicely in a good contest at Ascot last time and that race is often a good pointer for this prize. He’s a nice each-way price and I’m hopeful of a good show. Master Debonair was nicely at Cheltenham earlier in the campaign and has been give some high-praise by his trainer in the lead up to the Cheltenham Festival, he should also have more to come.

Selection: EDEN DU HOUX @20/1 Each-Way

JLT NOVICES' CHASE GRADEÂ 1

CAMELIA DE COTTE (FR) 7 b m Laveron – Traviata Valtat Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Talented mare; Camelia De Cotte has taken her form to a new level this season over fences with her only defeat over fences to date by Arkle Novices’ Chase favourite, Le Richebourg. She’s won 5 times over fences this season, including a win at Grade 3 and Grade 2 company by a combined 26-lengths. She’s a headstrong mare that likes to get on with things, it’s hard to get an easy lead in any race at the Cheltenham Festival, but she’s a likeable sort that jumps and travels well, which is important in this contest.

CHRIS’S DREAM (IRE) 7 b g Mahler – Janebailey Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Robcour Chris’s Dream was a very progressive novice hurdle prospect last season for his connections, but failed to live up to expectations in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle. I think he’s looked even better over the larger obstacles this season, winning two of his three outings, including a Grade 2 win over Champagne Classic in game style last time. He holds entries in both the JLT Novices’ Chase and RSA Novices’ Chase, I’m sure ground conditions will decide where they go with him at Cheltenham. His jumping looks his biggest asset.

DEFI DU SEUIL (FR) 6 b g Voix Du Nord – Quarvine Du Seuil Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus Defi Du Seuil really has got his career back on track this season over the larger obstacles after encountering a troubled 2017/18 campaign. He didn’t jump well enough on his chasing debut at Cheltenham, but learnt from the experience to win comfortably in a good Novices’ Chase at Exeter on his next start. He gained revenge on Lostintranslation under a more patient ride from Barry Geraghty to land a first Grade 1 success over fences last time at Sandown. He holds entries in both the Arkle Novices’ Chase (2m) and JLT Novices’ Chase (2m4f) at the Cheltenham Festival, I think the 2m4f would be better suited under a patient ride, but ground conditions will decide his likely target.

GLEN FORSA (IRE)

7 b g Mahler – Outback Ivy Trainer: Mick Channon Owner: T P Redford This son of Mahler has taken his form to a new level over the larger obstacles this season, winning a 3m handicap chase off a mark of 114 on his chase debut, before bolting up in the Grade 2 Kingmaker Novices’ Chase at Sandown last time, beating Kalashnikov by 19-lengths. Glen Forsa is a very lightly raced horse that should have plenty more to come over fences, he jumps, travels and stays extremely well, which you need in this race. He’s a solid contender in this contest.

HARDLINE (IRE)

7 b g Arcadio – Hidden Reserve Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Hardline had some useful form over hurdles last season, but he’s another in this field that has taken his form to a new level over fences this campaign, winning three of his five starts. He beat Us And Them by 10-lengths at Grade 2 level in December, before lowering the colours of Getabird in a Grade 1 at Limerick. The seemed to ride him like a non-stayer in the Flogas last time, but the way he kept on after getting outpaced suggests he stayed the trip well, but he was no match for La Bague Au Roi. He holds entries in both the Arkle Novices’ Chase and JLT Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, with the former being connections preferred target.

KILDISART (IRE)

7 b g Dubai Destination – Princess Mairead Trainer: Ben Pauling Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Kildisart shaped with a lot of promise of his chase debut when second behind a more experienced rival, he narrowly went one place better in a 2m5f Graduation Chase at the same track a month later, recording a short-head victory over Activial. He took advantage of an attractive looking handicap mark to land a good contest on his chase handicap debut over this C&D last time, despite making a couple of jumping errors along the way. He’s a likeable sort, but might find a couple too good.

LOSTINTRANSLATION (IRE) 7 b g Flemensfirth – Falika

Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Taylor & O’Dwyer Lostintranslation built on his placed efforts behind subsequent two-time Grade 1 winner La Bague Au Roi to land the Grade 2 Dipper Novices’ Chase over this C&D. He jumped very well in the lead on that occasion and battled back after getting headed by Defi Du Seuil after the last. He was narrowly denied by his old foe in the Grade 1 Scilly Isles last time with the winner given a quieter ride. Lostintranslation ticks a lot of boxes here and has to be given great respect.

REAL STEEL (FR)

6 b g Loup Breton – Kalimina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Real Steel was a last fence faller on his chase debut at Leopardstown over Christmas when possibly being held by the eventual winner Paloma Blue. He got back on track on his second start with a very easy success at Fairyhouse, relishing the step up in distance. Most of his runs last season came on Soft or Heavy ground, but I think this horse is a lot better on a sounder surface.

He’s capable of running a big race here.

TOPOFTHEGAME (IRE) 7 ch g Flemensfirth – Derry Vale Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Chris Giles & Mr & Mrs P K Barber Topofthegame remarkably finished second on his chase debut behind subsequent Grade 1 winner Defi Du Seuil after conceding close to 25-lengths at the start. He travelled like the winner in the Grade 1 Kauto Star Novices’ Chase at Kempton, but found the tough La Bague Au Roi too good on the day. Topofthegame is very lightly raced for his age and there’s undoubtedly more to come from him over fences. He holds entries in both the JLT Novices’ Chase and RSA Novices’ Chase, connections seem to be preferring the latter at this stage, but that could change if the ground came up testing.

Verdict This contest could actually be a very strong race if they all turned up, but plenty of them have the option of dropping to 2m or stepping up to 3m at the Cheltenham Festival, which has taken a lot of the quality away from this contest. I’ll start by saying, I thought this race would be rather easy to write about and give a selection in as after his romp over Kalashnikov last time, I thought this was Glen Forsa’s to lose, but it’s looking more likely he’ll be heading for the Arkle Novices’ Chase.

If he does end up running in this contest, which he still might as he’s a winner over 3m at Chepstow over fences, which takes a lot of getting, he’d undoubtedly get my vote. Defi Du Seuil could easily revert back to 2m in the Arkle as well after JP McManus ante-post favourite Le Richebourg was pulled out due to injury. I have no doubt that he stays this trip, but he doesn’t do a lot in front, which isn’t ideal up the Cheltenham hill. I’d actually be pretty keen on Topofthegame if he dropped back in trip for this, but it’s looking more likely he’ll stay over 3m for the RSA Novices’ Chase, but he’d be of interest if he does go for this. I don’t have any strong views on this race, but I’m not going to do a preview of this race without giving a selection. I’ve sided with the Willie Mullins trained REAL STEEL. He fell on his chase debut behind when likely to finish second at Leopardstown, but he’s bounced back in good style winning his next two starts in very good style. He’s never won going left handed, which does often give off warning signs with me, but he has shown ability going that way around so he should be fine. As I said, I don’t have a strong view on this currently, that could change closer to the race but at this moment in time, he gets my vote. C&D Grade 2 winner Lostintranslation deserves his place at the head of the market and there’s no real negatives give about him, but I just thought he’s worth taking on as he’s far from unbeatable.

Selection: REAL STEEL @7/1 Win

PERTEMPS NETWORK FINAL HANDICAP HURDLE GRADEÂ 3

AARON LAD (IRE)

8 b g Daylami – Borntobepampered Trainer: Dr Richard Newland Owner: Off The Clock Partnership & Dr RDP Newland Aaron Lad has looked good this season, winning 2 of his 3 starts, including a C&D handicap in December. His connections have given him a nice break since that success and wisely protected his handicap mark, which still has scope for further improvement. It’s hard not to like him.

A TOI PHIL (FR)

9 b g Day Flight - Lucidrile Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud A Toi Phil is probably better known for what he’s done over fences than what he’s done over hurdles, but he looks on a workable mark and qualified for this race with a decent fourth last time at Punchestown. He has a few Cheltenham Festival entries, but he’s overlooked in this contest for me.

BLACK MISCHIEF (GB) 7 b g Black Sam Bellamy – Miss Mitch Trainer: Harry Fry Owner: Tom Chadney and Friends Unlucky not to win at Market Rasen on his seasonal debut, he made amends when staying on well to win at Haydock on his next start. His run at Wincanton was all about ensuring he qualified for this contest, which he did, but the step up to 3m on a stiffer track might not suit him here.

BOYHOOD (IRE)

8 b g Oscar – Glen Dubh Trainer: Tom George Owner: H Stephen Smith & The Gabbertas Family Boyhood has some useful Cheltenham form to his name, most recently a win here over C&D last season. I think this race would have been the plan for him for some time and he qualified on his latest start with a good effort. Better ground will be no problem for this son of Oscar and still could have more to come.

CAP YORK (FR)

7 b g Ballingarry – Robbe Trainer: Noel Meade Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Improving novice; Cap York ran a nice race in a Grade 2 behind Derrinross at Limerick before qualifying for this contest with a good win last time at Punchestown. That should ensure his mark is high enough to get a run in this contest, he looks to have a very good chance, and his chance would be made stronger if some rain arrived.

CUNEO (FR)

7 b g Kapgarde – Mefertiti Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Cuneo landed a qualifier for this contest in good style over the Christmas period, battling on well to deny Walk For Freedom. I’m not sure that was strong contest, but he could do no more than win and a stiffer track like Cheltenham may see him at his best. His current mark doesn’t guarantee him a run here, but if he does, he’s more than capable of getting competitive.

FIRST ASSIGNMENT (IRE) 6 b g Vinnie Roe – Rebel Dream

Trainer: Ian Williams Owner: The Dttw Partnership First Assignment has some solid pieces of form to his name, he was a good winner over this C&D back in November before running under a 5lb penalty a week later to only bump into Grade 1 winner Paisley Park (now rated 167) and Grade 2 winner Shades Of Midnight (now rated 148). He qualified with a decent third at Warwick. I think he has a lot of boxes ticked.

FLEMCARA (IRE) 7 b g Flemensfirth – Cara Mara Trainer: Emma Lavelle Owner: Andy & The Frisky Fillies Things didn’t quite work out for this horse over fences this season, but he took advantage of a return hurdling when landing one of the last qualifiers for this contest recently at Exeter. He done that in good fashion, but this will demand a lot more off his new mark.

KEEPER HILL (IRE) 8 b g Westerner – You Take Care Trainer: Warren Greatrex Owner: McNeill Family Keeper Hill has some useful Cheltenham form to his name, including a good second behind Aaron Lad over this C&D back in Decemeber. He qualified for this contest with a good victory at Warwick under good conditional Harry Teal. He can’t be discounted in this.

NOT MANY LEFT (IRE) 6 b g Oscar – Lasado Trainer: Mrs John Harrington Owner: Robcour Not Many Left made his first start in a handicap a winning one when landing his qualifier for this contest last time at Huntingdon. He was supporting first time cheekpieces on that occasion, which seemed to bring out the best in him. I think this stiffer track will suit him, but he’ll need a lot more if he’s going to land this.

SAMBURU SHUJAA (FR) 6 b g Poliglote – Girelle

Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: Robert & Janet Gibbs Improving novice; This son of Poliglote has a very likeable profile for a race of this nature and landed his qualifier in grand style at Chepstow last time. He was very heavily backed that day and a win was evidently expected. Cheltenham will suit his style and he should run a big race for a stable that won this with Fingal Bay in 2014.

SIRE DU BERLAIS (FR)

7 b g Poliglote – Royale Athenia Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: John P McManus This race has seemingly been the plan for this horse for some time, and he qualified for this by the skin of his teeth with a sixth-place finish at Leopardstown during the Christmas period.

Connections have wisely protected his handicap mark, which could prove decisive. He has good previous Cheltenham Festival experience that’ll account for a lot here.

Verdict Always a tough race to call, but Glenloe was an agonisingly close second last season for the Cheltenham Festival Preview, and we’ll look to go one place better this year. Gordon Elliott had the first two home in this last season and this has undoubtedly been the long-term plan for Sire Du Berlais. He looks on a workable mark at present and should be getting competitive here. Not Many Left made his handicap debut a winning one last time at Huntingdon. That victory came in workmanlike fashion, but he’s an improver that should have more to come. This C&D will help more than last time. It’s hard to know if Aaron Lad’s upward curve has ended, he won in good style over this C&D when we last seen him and the rise in the weights might not stop him getting competitive once again. I like two in this, the first is FIRST ASSIGNMENT, who has some strong pieces of form to his name this season behind Grade 1 winner Paisley Park. He’s a C&D winner that was able to qualify for this race without scuppering his handicap mark further. He has to go well for Ian Williams. The other I like is the Philip Hobbs trained SAMBURU SHUJAA, a novice that is going the right way, and landed and gamble when qualifying for this last time at Chepstow.

A 7lb rise for that success looks pretty fair, he could run a very big race here. Keeper Hill is also worth a good mention, he finished ahead of First Assignment when winning a qualifying at Warwick and had ran a nice race behind Aaron Lad on his penultimate start.

Selection: FIRST ASSIGNMENT @12/1 Each-Way & SAMBURU SHUJAA @12/1 Each/Way

RYANAIR CHASE GRADEÂ 1

AL BOUM PHOTO (FR) 7 b g Buck’s Boum – Al Gane

Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs J Donnelly Al Boum Photo has some good form to his name and is pretty closely matched with Monalee on their form last season. He defied a penalty to win in very good style on his return at Tramore, defeat stablemates Total Recall and subsequent Thyestes winner Invitation Only. I’m not totally convinced this horse stays 3m so I think this trip will prove ideal for him here, but it would have been nice to have seen him again before this meeting.

BALKO DES FLOS (FR) 8 ch g Balko – Royale Marie

Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Anyone that read last year’s Cheltenham Festival Preview will know Balko Des Flos was given as my NAP of the meeting, and he obliged with a very good performance under a brilliant Davy Russell ride. He hasn’t been in the same form since and I think it’s fair to say his win last year took quite a lot out of him. That said, he’s been racing on a lot quicker ground this season and there’s no doubt he could bounce back to form here if he gets some rain.

FOOTPAD (FR) 7 b g Creachadoir – Willamina Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Soude Footpad hasn’t quite reached the level of form he showed in his stellar 2017/18 campaign, falling when looking beat on his Naas return, before getting worn down in the shadow of the post by Simply Ned over Christmas. He did offer a lot more encouragement at Leopardstown, travelling and jumping a lot better, but possibly just needed that race. He has the option of running here or taking on Altior in the Champion Chase, as we know, Willie Mullins likes to keep his options open.

FOX NORTON (FR)

9 b g Lando – Natt Musik Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited Fox Norton had an excellent 2016/17 season for his connections, finishing a good second in the Champion Chase before winning two Grade 1 races at Aintree and Punchestown. I thought he shaped well behind Altior on his penultimate start after 389-days off the track, but he couldn’t build on it in the Ascot Chase last time travelling well before fading and no match for the easy winner. I’m not sure 2m4f around Cheltenham is his optimum conditions and his best days might be behind him.

FRODON (FR) 7 b g Nickname – Miss County Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: P J Vogt Frodon has had brilliant campaign to date, landing the Old Roan Chase on his seasonal debut, landing the valuable Caspian Caviar Gold Cup, before following up in the Grade 2 Cotswold Chase over 3m. His connections seem set in stone with the Gold Cup as his main target at the Cheltenham Festival, which I think is the correct call as he’s more than earned his ticket. Paul Nicholls has stated if the ground came up Soft then this race would come into play, he’d have a solid shout.

MIN (FR) 8 b g Walk In The Park – Phemyka Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Min has looked better than ever this season, winning both his starts in Grade 1 company in very good style. The son of Walk In The Park is very versatile regards ground conditions and distance, he holds entries in both this contest as well as the Champion Chase, which he ran a very good race in last season to finish second. I’m sure connections are sick of the sight of Altior and this contest could become his target, but like Footpad, Willie Mullins will keep his options open, I’m sure he’ll want to split the pair up if possible.

MONALEE (IRE)

8 b g Milan – Tempest Belle Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Barry Maloney I think Monalee should have ran in the JLT Novices’ Chase last season when the ground conditions changed, and I’m certain he’d have gone close. He was no match for Presenting Percy over 3m on that occasion, just failing to get home on the testing ground. He’s proven himself to be in good heart this season, running a big race to finish second in the Savills Chase, before landing the Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park last time. I think this C&D will be right up his street and he does look to holds solid claims, especially if there was some juice in the ground.

TOP NOTCH (FR)

8 b g Poliglote – Topira Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Top Notch is a grand little horse that has already been a great servant to his connections. He’s won 8 of his 12 starts over fences with 3 of those defeats coming in Grade 1 company, and he more often than gives his running. A slight setback meant he missed his intended engagement in this race last season and I’m sure his connections will be looking forward to running him here.

He’s had a lightly raced campaign this season and is more than capable of running a big race on the pick of his form. His chances will be aided further with some cut in the ground.

UN DE SCEAUX (FR) 11 b g Denham Road – Hotesse De Sceaux Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Edward O’Connell Un De Sceaux is one of them horses that you’d love to own, he’d literally run through a brick wall for you, and at age of 11, he proved the fire is still burning with a fine effort behind Altior in the Tingle Creek. The fact the ground conditions have been pretty quick for most of the season meant we haven’t seen him as much as we’d have liked, but the form of his sole run this campaign gives him good place claims. He’s another that’ll appreciate some rain.

WAITING PATIENTLY (IRE) 8 b g Flemensfirth – Rossavon

Trainer: Ruth Jefferson Owner: Richard Collins I might be wrong, but I just don’t this horse is as good as some may think he is, or he’s just not as good as people hope he is maybe a better way to phrase it. Maybe I’m being a little harsh there, but I just don’t think he’s a 170 horse on the form we have seen from him to date. He was undoubtedly unlucky in the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day, it was too far out to know what would’ve happened, but I think he’d have done well to beat the winner on the day. He was very disappointing at Ascot last time, finishing 17-lengths behind Cyrname. I was there that day and I didn’t think he was in peak fitness, which is understandable for a horse that only jumped/ran for just over 1m in public for almost a year, but that was clearly not the difference between winning and losing on the day. I’m not sure this race will be ideal and it may be worth waiting for Aintree with him.

Verdict This is a similar event to the JLT Novices’ Chase over the same trip in the sense a few of the entries could either take on Altior over 2m or step up to 3m2f for the Cheltenham Gold Cup. Like the JLT, I don’t particularly have a strong fancy for this, but I’ll give my view on the race at this moment in time. I’m sure Willie Mullins will be wanting to split up Min and Footpad at this meeting, but both would hold strong claims in this if turning up. I think it’s looking more likely that Min will head for the Champion Chase at this stage, but that could easily change in the coming days. Un Des Sceaux has been a legend for his connections and looks sure to give it his all.

He might just find some younger legs too good on this occasion. Frodon will likely contest the Gold Cup unless ground conditions change dramatically. He’s obviously become of keen interest if he did switch to this race. Balko Des Flos gave Gigginstown House Stud a first win in this race last season and give the Cheltenham Festival Preview a NAP winner. He hasn’t quite been in the same form since, but Cheltenham does amazing things, he might just bounce back. At this stage, I’m going to play safe with MONALEE in this. He’s a talented, consistent sort that always seems to give his running when he stays on his feet. He ran a good race in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas, before winning the Red Mills under a 7lb penalty in good style last time. As I said, at this stage he get my vote, but that may change on the day. I’d personally like to see Al Boum Photo in this as I think this trip is ideal for him. He may stay an easy 3m, but I’m not sure the Gold Cup trip is what he wants. That race seems the plan at the moment, but it would be no surprise to see him rerouted to this.

Selection: MONALEE @5/1 Win

SUN BETS STAYERS' HURDLE GRADEÂ 1

BLACK OP (IRE)

8 br g Sandmason – Afar Story Trainer: Tom George Owner: R S Brookhouse Black Op is clearly a horse that has a big engine, but he’s one that’s been a little disappointing this campaign despite not really running a bad race. I thought he’d take a high rank amongst the novice chasers this season, but his jumping just wasn’t good enough, hence the switch back to hurdling. I thought he ran a nice enough race in the Cleeve Hurdle last time, but he was no match for Paisley Park on the day. He’ll need to improve to win this, but he’s a solid place contender.

FAUGHEEN (IRE)

11 b g Germany – Miss Pickering Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Faugheen is undoubtedly one of the best hurdlers I’ve had the pleasure of seeing in the flesh, but we’re at the twilight stage of his career now and he’s clearly not the horse he was before his injury. That said, he out up one of the performances in the season at Punchestown last year, demolishing his field in the Grade 1 Champion Stayers Hurdle by 13lengths, including Penhill. He found 2m just too sharp for him on his return in November, finishing behind his stablemate Sharjah. It was too far out to say if he’d have given Apple’s Jade a race last time when falling at Leopardstown, but he was still travelling very well and in with a shout.

You can’t rule him out in this.

KILBRICKEN STORM (IRE) 8 b g Oscar – Kilbricken Leader

Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: A Selway & P Wavish Kilbricken Storm won on his chasing debut at Ffos Las in November by the skin of his teeth before flopping when fancied for a Grade 2 at Newbury on his next start. His entry in this race suggest his connections think he’d be suited by a switch back hurdling, which could be a good move. He won a messy renewal of the Albert Bartlett on Heavy ground here last season, but he did beat Paisley Park, Ok Corral and Santini, that form gives him sound form claims.

MIDNIGHT SHADOW (GB)

6 b g Midnight Legend – Holy Smoke Trainer: Sue Smith Owner: Mrs Aafke Clarke Midnight Shadow has been an improver amongst the hurdling ranks this season, winning a handicap at Aintree in good fashion before landing the Grade 2 Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham on his next start, under a good ride from Danny Cook. He was well held behind Paisley Park in the Cleeve Hurdle last time before getting badly hampered and brought to a standstill at the last hurdle. I’m not totally convinced he stayed the trip on that occasion, but he’s worth another chance at least, in a race that looks to have places up for grabs.

PAISLEY PARK (IRE)

7 b g Oscar – Presenting Shares Trainer: Emma Lavelle Owner: Andrew Gemmel Paisley Park has had a create season to date, winning all four of his races, including a win in the Grade 1 JLT Hurdle (formerly Long Walk Hurdle) at Ascot. I couldn’t put into words how impressed I was with him last time in the Cleeve Hurdle under a penalty over this C&D, effortlessly winning by 12-lengths despite looking slightly vulnerable 4f out. He has a similar profile to Sam Spinner, who went off favourite for this race last season, but unlike Sam Spinner, he has valuable C&D experience. Paisley Park races lazily in his races, but finishes them very well, which is what you need in a staying hurdler. It’s going to take a special performance to beat him here.

PENHILL (IRE)

8 b g Mount Nelson – Serrenia Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Tony Bloom Penhill was a very good winner of this race last season, winning after 323-days off the track, he bids to do the same this season, but it’s clearly not an issue and his record fresh is outstanding.

He’s 2/2 over this C&D now and it was hard not to be impressed with his win in this 12-months ago, but what I will say is, they went a slow gallop on the day and I’m not sure the form hasn’t exactly worked out well since. Obviously, he needs serious respecting here, but I’d be inclined to take him on.

SAMCRO (IRE)

7 ch g Germany – Dun Dun Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This hasn’t been the season connections may have hoped for Samcro, beaten comfortably behind Bedrock before being well and truly put in his place by Buveur D’Air at Newcastle. His run at Leopardstown over Christmas was too bad to be true, and he was later found to be suffering from a lung infection. He holds entries in both the Champion Hurdle and Stayers’ Hurdle, on his best efforts, we know he has the ability to run a big race.

SUPASUNDAE (GB)

9 b g Galileo – Distinctive Look Trainer: Mrs John Harrington Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited Supasundae is a remarkable horse and a true credit to his connections. He’s been campaigned over 2m, 2m4f and 3m in recent seasons on a variety of different ground, and hasn’t been out of the money since December 2016. He ran a cracker in this race last season to finish second behind Penhill, this will likely be his target again, he’s a solid place contender.

WEST APPROACH (GB) 9 b g Westerner – Ardstown Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: John and Heather Snook West Approach has been knocking in the door in staying hurdles at the top-level for the last couple of seasons, including placed efforts at this level. Switched back hurdling after a few below par efforts over fences this season, West Approach has chased home Paisley Park on both starts over hurdles this season. He usually gives his running when getting his conditions and could run well at a big price.

Verdict I’ll try and keep this one as simple as I can, as I’m very keen on the chances of one. Midnight Shadow looked a horse going the right way before slightly disappointing last time over this C&D, I think he’s better than he showed on that occasion, but it was his first attempt over 3m and he has stamina questions to answer. Kilbricken Storm and Black Op took high rank amongst the novice hurdlers last season, both winning Grade 1 contests, they were expected to do the same over fences this campaign but didn’t live up to their connection’s expectations. Their hurdles form gives them sound form claims in this race, but both still have questions to answer. Another with questions to answer is the mighty Samcro, who has looked a shadow of the horse he was last season. His below efforts this season could be excused after connections discovered he has been suffering with a deep lung infection. It’s believed he’s a 50/50 chance to make the Cheltenham Festival, but if he did, he’d need plenty of respect if turning up in this contest over a more suitable 3m. Faugheen has been an incredible horse for his connections with a win in the Champion Hurdle amongst his great achievements. He was an excellent winner over 3m at Punchestown last season, he was still going well behind the brilliant Apple’s Jade before falling on his last start, those efforts definitely give him a chance here. I’m very keen on the chances of PAISLEY PARK in this. He’s been brilliant this season, including a Grade 1 victory at Ascot before recording a devastating win over this C&D on his last start. I posted him as an ante-post fancy for this race on my Twitter page when a general 12/1 shot, his win in the Cleeve has put him at the head of the betting for this race now, but his price isn’t enough to put me off him. He’s in a different league to the UK horses in this division. Penhill won this race last season in good style, but it’s possible he was the one best equipped to quicken off the slow-pace. His connections have worked out he’s seen to best effect when fresh, he’s got to go close again and looks the biggest danger to the selection. Supasundae also shouldn’t be forgotten, he’s looked a little one-paced over shorter distances this season and it’s quite possible he needs this trip to be at his best these days. He ran a mighty race to be second last season and should have good place claims again.

Selection: PAISLEY PARK @2/1 Win (Ante-Post @12/1 Each-Way)

BROWN ADVISORY & MERRIEBELLE HANDICAP CHASE GRADE 3

BALLYHILL (FR)

8 bb g Al Namix – Laly Light Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies Owner: S Such & CG Paletta Ballyhill has some good Cheltenham form to his name this season with good placed efforts behind Aso and Siruh Du Lac over this trip. He was no match for Clan Des Obeaux in the Denman Chase when we last seen him, and he’s likely to find a few too good here again.

BENATAR (IRE)

7 ch g Beneficial – Carrigeen Lily Trainer: Gary Moore Owner: Ashley Head Benatar is a horse I’ve always liked and I’m convinced he has a nice handicap in him at some point. He ran a nice race in the JLT last season despite possibly not being totally in love with the ground. He also holds and entry in the 3m1f race, but I would presume this will be the target, as I’m not totally convinced, he stays 3m.

BOUVREUIL (FR) 8 b g Saddler Maker – Madame Lys Trainer: Ben Haslam Owner: John P McManus Bouvreuil has gone well in this contest in the past for his previous trainer when finishing third behind Road To Respect in 2017. He was a winner on his debut for Ben Haslam off a 3lb lower mark than his current rating, winning nicely off top-weight at Wetherby under a very good ride.

From a handicapping perspective, he should run a competitive race, especially if the ground is Good to Soft.

COUNT MERIBEL (GB)

7 ch g Three Valleys – Bakhtawar Trainer: Nigel Twiston-Davies Owner: Charles C Walker Count Meribel was a decent winner over this C&D back in November when landing a useful Novices’ Chase very gamely. He was slightly disappointing in Grade 2 company on his next start, but it was still only his third effort over fences, so he can’t be judged too harshly. His handicap mark demands more from him.

EAMON AN CNOIC (IRE)

8 b g Westerner – Nutmeg Tune Trainer: David Pipe Owner: The Angove Family This son of Westerner ran well for a long way in the Ultima last season, but just failed to get home over the trip on the very testing ground. He made good use of an attractive looking handicap mark to win last time over 2m at Chepstow, but I’m a bit sceptical about how strong a race that was. He jumps well.

GUN DIGGER (IRE) 7 ch g Stowaway – Booley Bay Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This son of Stowaway has a likeable profile with this contest in mind and he could be lurking on a potentially very good mark at present. He finished a good third behind Chris’s Dream before winning well enough at Leopardstown (flattered by winning margin), he needs plenty of respect here. He holds entries in a few races at the meeting.

JERRYSBACK (IRE)

7 b g Jeremy – Get A Few Bob Back Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus This son of Jeremy has had his issues with injuries in the past, but he’s always been a horse that has promised a lot. He has looked a very bright prospect over fences this season, staying on well to win at Bangor, before chasing home Vinndication in a Grade 2 at Ascot. His mark of 148 is fair enough on what he’s achieved to date and there could be more to come from him.

KNOCKGRAFFON (IRE)

9 b g Flemensfirth – Gleaming Spire Trainer: Olly Murphy Owner: Mrs Barbara Hester I thought he did well to win on his seasonal reappearance at Musselburgh, his jockey never looked totally happy with him, but he stayed on well to win rather easily in the end and I’m certain that he’ll improve for that effort. He hasn’t quite delivered on his two previous runs at Cheltenham, but he’s on a workable mark.

LIVELOVELAUGH (IRE) 9 b g Beneficial – Another Evening Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci This horse was quietly fancied for the Close Brothers last season, but he fell early on. He shaped very well on his latest start behind Whisperinthebreeze, doing best of those held up. He’ll relish a strong pace to aim at and could run a very big race if turning up here.

RATHER BE (IRE)

8 b g Oscar – Irish Wedding Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Matt & Lauren Morgan Rather Be came agonisingly close to landing the Close Brothers at this meeting last season, finishing a head second to Mister Whitaker despite not seemingly enjoying the ground conditions. He looked to be running a nice race here in the BetVictor Gold Cup in November, but was brought down by a faller. He hasn’t been in the same form in his last couple of starts, but it will be no surprise to see him bounce back in this.

ROARING BULL (IRE)

6 b g Milan – Gift Of Freedom Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud It’s an old racing cliché, but what this horse achieved over hurdles last season was always going to be a bonus, he was always a real chaser in the making. He’s a son of Milan and has been wellsuited to a sound surface this season and has been progressing very well. He was a very easy 14lengths winner last time at Naas and that form looks good enough for him to have a big say here.

SIRUH DU LAC (FR) 6 b g Turgeon – Margerie Trainer: Nick Williams Owner: John White & Anne Underhill I loved the way this horse jumped and travelled when a very game winner of a Grade 3 handicap over this C&D in January. I thought a 7lb rise for that success was very fair as the front two pulled nicely clear of the third. Obviously, the 7lb rise will demand more from him, but he’s totally unexposed and the way he jumps and travels gives him a big chance.

SPIRITOFTHEGAMES (IRE) 7 b g Darsi – Lucy Walters

Trainer: Dan Skelton Owner: N W Lake Spiritofthegames ran a creditable race in third when heavily backed here in January, finishing just over 2-lengths behind JLT Novices’ Chase hopeful Kildisart. He stayed on well enough, enough to suggest he can win races off his current mark. This will be a different ball game, however.

Verdict Another tough handicap to call, but we’ll give it ago. Spirtofthegames ran a nice race behind two useful types conceding weight last time. He was very well supported on that occasion, so someone clearly thinks he’s lurking on a nice mark at present. He’s a horse with useful previous Cheltenham Festival experience and shouldn’t be discounted. Rather Be is a difficult horse to assess and he’s threatening to become a little frustrating at present. He looked to be running a big race in a handicap here at the start of the season, but he was brought down by a faller. I’m not sure if that event has knocked his confidence, but he’ll need to bounce back. Ben Haslam has already got a win out of Bouvreuil and targets a first Cheltenham Festival success in this contest.

Bouvreuil finished a good third in this a couple of seasons back behind Road To Respect and could just be on a workable mark to go well again. Benatar has always given the impression he had a big handicap in him, but he’s not quite delivered that impression on the track this season.

I’m going to give a speculative verdict to the Nick Williams trained SIRUH DE LAC here. The way he jumped and travelled last time before battling back up the hill way a pleasure to watch, and I think a 7lb rise for that is fair. I’ll be surprised if there isn’t more to come from him at some point and I’m hopeful of a good effort. I don’t think we’ve seen the best of Jerrysback yet, he could have more to come if running in this contest. He has a few entries to choose from.

Selection: SIRUH DE LAC @10/1 Each-Way

TRULL HOUSE STUD MARES' NOVICES' HURDLE GRADEÂ 2

ELUSIVE BELLE (IRE)

5 b m Elusive Pimpernel – Soviet Belle Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Robert Waley-Cohen This filly showed plenty of ability in bumpers last year for Peter Fahey before being sold and sent to Nicky Henderson. She looked a very bright prospect when effortlessly pulling 19-lengths clear off a two-time hurdle winner at Wincanton on her stable/hurdling debut. She disappointed on her next start in testing ground conditions at Sandown, but I’m happy to put that down to the going.

EPATANTE (FR)

5 b m No Risk At All - Kadjara Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Grade 1 bumper winner in France; Epatante has built on the promise she showed for her previous connections with two effortless victories over hurdles this season. I personally don’t think she’s beat a lot in either of those wins, but she could only beat what was put in front of her.

She’s undoubtedly a filly with a lot of class and a seriously high-cruising speed.

HONEYSUCKLE (GB)

5 b m Sulamani – First Royal Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: K Alexander Very easy winner of her point-to-point, Honeysuckle has looked extremely impressive over hurdles this campaign, winning all-three of her starts in the style of a high-class mare. This race hasn’t been going very long, but I’m certain you’ll need a mare that stays well, and this mare certainly does that. Her experience will help her.

LUST FOR GLORY (IRE)

6 b m Getaway – Maisie Presenting Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Grech & Parkin I think this is a good mare, but she definitely needs top of the ground to be at her very best. She was a good winner over Posh Trish at Newbury on her seasonal debut, but couldn’t confirm that form on worse terms on very testing ground. I think she’ll run a nice race here as long as the ground has the word ‘Good’ in it.

MY SISTER SARAH (IRE)

5 ch m Martaline – Reste Ren Or Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Barnane Stud Willie Mullins has won both running’s of this race in the past and this daughter of Martaline will look to keep that going this season. She’s done nothing wrong this season, winning 2 of her 3 starts, all wins coming over 2m4f. I think Cheltenham will suit her well and her proven stamina will also aid her cause.

POSH TRISH (IRE)

6 b m Stowaway – Moscow Demon Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Highclere T’Bred Racing – Posh Trish Posh Trish has some good form to her name and is another that’ll be suited to Cheltenham, as she stays nicely. She’s the most experienced in this line-up and will undoubtedly give it a good go.

She’s been freshened up since her win at Taunton.

SANCTA SIMONA (FR) 6 b m Saddex – Desimona

Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: John P McManus This mare has done nothing wrong over hurdles, winning twice, including a Grade 3 success at Down Royal. I think she was far from disgraced in Grade 1 company behind her stablemate Aramon last time, keeping on well into a clear second. She’s an interesting runner.

Verdict I think this race will be all about how good Epatante is, but I couldn’t for the life of me back her at her current price. I was blown away by her at Kempton on her British debut, but on the face of things, she didn’t beat much on that occasion. I think she’s a very high-class mare in the making, but at her current price I’ll be taking her on. Nicky Henderson’s other runners Elusive Belle and Lust For Glory both look very talented mares in their own right with preference for the latter, who seems at her best on better ground. Posh Trish is very closely matched with that mare and will relish the stiff finish, rain would help her, but it’s not vital. I’m going to side with the Henry De Bromhead trained HONEYSUCKLE, who has been very impressive in her three wins this campaign. It’s not a race I’ll be betting on until the day, but her form has worked out well and you know she’ll be doing her best work at the business end. It’s difficult to split the Willie Mullins runners on form, but I think My Sister Sarah is the one with the most scope for further improvement.

Selection: HONEYSUCKLE @7/2 Win

KIM MUIR AMATEUR RIDERS' HANDICAP CHASE CLASS 2

AMI DESBOIS (FR)

9 b g Dream Well – Baroya Trainer: Graeme McPherson Owner: Epds Racing Partnership 12 & Partner Ami Desbois has posted some good efforts in decent staying handicap chases this season, most notably when finishing a neck second behind Classic Ben last time at Sandown. Up 4lb for that effort, he handles better ground and the better ground should prove no problem. Decent shout.

ANY SECOND NOW (IRE) 7 b g Oscar – Pretty Neat

Trainer: T M Walsh Owner: John P McManus Any Second Now went off favourite for the 2m4f Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival last season, but was slightly disappointing in the testing ground conditions. He comes into this year’s meeting on a lower mark, but it’s difficult to say if he’s in better form as he had placed form behind Monalee, Invitation Only and Footpad last season. He’ll appreciate the likely sounder surface this year and the trip might just bring out the best in him.

BARNEY DWAN (IRE)

9 b g Vinnie Roe – Kapricia Speed Trainer: Fergal O’Brien Owner: Paul & Clare Rooney Barney Dwan has placed at the last two Cheltenham Festival, both over hurdles and fences. He comes into this contest on a workable mark on the pick of his best form, but he’ll need to prove his stamina. That said, he potentially would have won over 3m2f over hurdles at Warwick a few seasons ago. Respected.

GLEN ROCCO (GB)

8 ch g Shirocco – Adees Dancer Trainer: Nick Gifford Owner: J Kyle, G Mason, D Stevens Glen Rocco has a very progressive profile and is still unexposed over staying trips. He chased home Arkle/JLT fancy Glen Forsa in a handicap at Kempton on Boxing Day before bolting up on his first start over 3m at the same track a month later. He never looked happy last time upped in class, and I can forgive that effort on with the ground riding very quick. He should have plenty more to come and this track and trip should help.

IMPULSIVE STAR (IRE)

9 b g Busy Flight – Impulsive Ita Trainer: Neil Mulholland Owner: Robert Waley-Cohen & Men Holding Impulsive Star ticks a lot of boxes here and could be set for a big run. He’s a second season novice that ran a very good reason behind leading National Hunt Chase fancy Ok Corral on his seasonal debut at Plumpton before winning in game style in the Grade 3 Classic Handicap Chase. He has some useful form at Cheltenham and will enjoy stay this trip extremely well.

IT’S ALL GUESSWORK (IRE) 7 b g Mahler – La Lambertine

Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Philip J Reynolds Consistent sort over fences in the summer, including a very smooth success Navan by 6-lengths.

Given a break after, he made a pleasing return when finishing a decent third over hurdles at Punchestown. This son of Mahler holds a few entries at the Cheltenham Festival, but I think this contest looks his most likely target.

LIVELOVELAUGH (IRE)

9 b g Beneficial – Another Evening Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci This horse was quietly fancied for the Close Brothers last season, but he fell early on. He shaped very well on his latest start behind Whisperinthebreeze, doing best of those held up. He’ll relish a strong pace to aim at and could run a very big race if turning up here. He also holds an entry in the Plate over 2m4f.

NO COMMENT (GB)

8 br g Kayf Tara – Dizzy Frizzy Trainer: Philip Hobbs Owner: John P McManus No Comment has only raced three-times over fences with one of those efforts coming in a Grade 1 at Sandown, and another in the National Hunt Chase at this meeting 12-months ago. He’s been allocated a mark of 138 over fences, which could be a very nice mark, but his experience and lack of a recent run puts me off him.

SQUOUATEUR (FR)

8 gr g Martaline – Samansonnienne Trainer: Ben Haslam Owner: John P McManus Squouateur has been called a few names in the past, but it hasn’t stopped him going off favourite for races at the Cheltenham Festival in the last three seasons. He’s joined Ben Haslam ahead of the meeting with the change of scenery hopefully bringing out the best in him. If his jumping can improve with his new trainer, he has to run a nice race.

WHISPERINTHEBREEZE (GB) 6 rg g Kayf Tara – Silver Spinner

Trainer: Mrs John Harrington Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited This son of Kayf Tara has taken his form he showed over hurdles last campaign to a new level switched chasing this season. He won a handicap chase in grand style on his latest start at Leopardstown, jumping well on the whole to record a 3-lengths win over Livelovelaugh. He’s an improving horse that should have more to come. He has a few entries at the Cheltenham Festival.

Verdict Squouateur has gone off favourite for this race for last two seasons, but failed to live up to the hype and expectations. He’s joined Ben Haslam since his last run and I’d be pretty hopeful the team at Castle Hill Stables can get the best out of this mischievous grey at some point. He’s still a novice over fences, but he’s run some good races, he needs to jump better than he has done. JP McManus also has No Comment entered, who has only ran three-times over fences to date. He was well touted for the National Hunt Chase last season, but failed to get home over the trip in the testing ground. He’s undoubtedly got plenty more to come over fences, but I’d rather be a watcher than a backer at this stage. It’s All Guesswork is a well named runner in this contest, as at it really is all guesswork with him. He shaped well in his prep run over hurdles last time and has more to come at a chaser and has to be feared. I’m not sure if he’s a confirmed runner, but I like the profile of GLEN ROCCO for this contest. He has some good form behind Arkle/JLT contender this season before running away with a 3m handicap on his next start. I think this trip will suit him well and if he turns up, I can see him running a nice race in this. Barney Dwan seems to save his best efforts for Cheltenham and it on a workable mark to show his best again. He does have slight stamina worries. The other I like the look of in this is the Emma Lavelle trained DE RASHER COUNTER, who could be handicapped to have a say in things. I think this distance could bring out more in him. He could hopefully end what could prove to be a successful day for Emma Lavelle, who should have landed the Grade 1 Stayers’ Hurdle with Paisley Park. Impulsive Star also has the option of running in the National Hunt Chase over 4m, but this contest looks suitable. He could still be on a good mark and hard to rule out.

Selection: GLEN ROCCO 33/1 Each-Way & DE RASHER COUNTER @20/1 Each-Way

JCB TRIUMPH HURDLE GRADE 1

ADJALI (FR)

4 b g Kamsin – Anabasis Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Simon Munir & Isaac Souede Adjali showed a useful level of form for Guillaume Macaire in France before making a very impressive winning British debut at Market Rasen by 13-lengths. He found the more experienced Quel Destin too tough at Chepstow in Grade 1 company on his next start, but that was still a good effort in defeat. He was no match for Fakir D’oudairies under a 5lb penalty last time, but I think he’s better than he showed on that occasion. He also holds an entry in the juvenile handicap, but a mark of 145 makes things tough.

BAND OF OUTLAWS (IRE)

4 b g Fast Company – Band Of Colour Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: J Carthy Band Of Outlaws had some useful form on the Flat for connections (rated 93), before successfully applying his trade over obstacles this season. He’s won 2 of his 3 starts over hurdles, including an above average contest last time at Naas in grand style, quickening nicely clear off the slow gallop.

He has the option of running in this contest or the Fred Winter, but it will all depend what rating the British/Irish handicappers give him for his achievements to date. He might find the Triumph Hurdle a step too far.

GARDENS OF BABYLON (IRE) 4 b g Camelot – Condition Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus

Gardens Of Babylon has shown arguably some of the best pieces of form of any of the runners in this contest and thoroughly deserves his place at the head of the betting. He was no match for his stablemate Sir Erec on his latest outing, but that was still a good effort in defeat and he should still have more to come. Also entered up in the handicap.

PIC D’ORHY (FR)

4 b g Turgeon – Rose Candy Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Mrs Johnny de la Hey This son of Turgeon was a very smart hurdler in France, winning three times for Francois Nicolle and finishing second in the Grade 1 Prix Cambaceres the very smart Beaumec De Houelle.

Subsequently joined Paul Nicholls team in Ditcheat, Pic D’Orhy looks a very smart recruit and looks to have a very bright future ahead of him. He’s yet to run in the UK, but holds an entry in this race and has been allocated a mark of 149, which puts him well in the mix. He’s undoubtedly the joker in the pack.

PENTLAND HILLS (IRE)

4 b g Motivator – Elle Galante Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Owners Group 031 Pentland Hills was steadily progressive on the Flat for Chris Wall last year winning twice and potentially still having more to come. He made his belated hurdling debut for Nicky Henderson at Plumpton recently, beating a useful sort by 14-lengths in very good style. He will clearly have a fruitful career in this sphere and clearly has a lot of ability, but this might just come too soon for him.

QUEL DESTIN (FR) 4 ch g Muhtathir – High Destiny Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Martin Broughton & Friends This son of Muhtathir has been a revelation in juvenile hurdles this season, winning 5-times, including a Grade 1 at Chepstow, which has been a useful trial for this contest in the past. He’s not flashy, he doesn’t blow you away, but he gets the job done with his quick, pinpoint accurate jumping. I think he’s the best juvenile in the UK this season, and I don’t think he’s gained the credit he deserves. He’s a solid place contender.

SIR EREC (IRE)

4 b c Camelot – Quiritis Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus This son of Camelot was a high-class performer on the Flat last season, finishing third behind Stradivarius on Champions Day. He’s replicated that form over hurdles this season for his new connections winning in workmanlike fashion on his debut at Leopardstown over Christmas, before landing the Grade 1 Spring Juvenile Hurdle in grand style last time, travelling effortlessly throughout before clearing away from his rivals after the last. He’s going to take a lot of beating here.

TIGER TAP TAP (GER)

4 ch g Jukebox Jury – Tomato Finish Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Mrs S Ricci Tiger Tap Tap had some useful form on the Flat in France prior to joining Willie Mullins team. He finished a narrow second behind Sir Erec on his stable debut, travelling well throughout before keeping on well at the finish. He couldn’t improve on that run when finishing fourth behind the same horse in Grade 1 company last time, but he shaped well again. He’s not the biggest, and I’m not convinced Cheltenham will be his track, but he’s an each/way contender for top connections.

Verdict Quel Destin just keeps winning, including a Grade 1 win over Adjali at Chepstow. He looks the best of the British on form and is a tough sort, which you need in this race. Paul Nicholls also has Pic D’orhy entered up, who has shown plenty of ability in France before joining his team in Ditcheat. It’s very difficult to assess his chances compared to the British/Irish runners, but he’s clearly a horse with talented and held in very good regard. Adjali was out battled by Quel Destin at Chepstow earlier in the season despite looking as if he’d win by a street at one point. He was disappointing last time at Cheltenham and will need to bounce back here, but he’s been a bit of a talking horse from Seven Barrows in the lead up to the Cheltenham Festival. I’m all over SIR EREC in this and he’s one of the bankers of the meeting for me. I was so impressed with his win last time at the Dublin Festival and a repeat of that success would see him win this in fine style.

Tiger Tap Tap needs to find more improvement if he’s going to reverse that form with Sir Erec.

Selection: SIR EREC @6/5 Win (Ante-Post 3/1 Win)

RANDOX HEALTH COUNTY HANDICAP HURDLE GRADE 3

BLU CAVALIER (GB)

9 b g Kayf Tara – Blue Ride Trainer: Ali Stronge Owner: www.Select-Racing-Club.co.uk Claimed for £6,000 after finishing second in a Selling Hurdle at Fakenham for Paul Nicholls, he quickly made himself look a very good buy after finishing an excellent third in the rescheduled Grade 3 Betfair Hurdle behind Al Dancer. He’ll need to prove that wasn’t a fluke here and this will be even tougher.

CAPITAINE (FR)

7 gr g Montmartre – Patte De Velour Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Martin Broughton & Friends 2 Capitaine made good use of a dropping hurdling mark when comfortably winning at Taunton last time. That was his first start since undergoing wind surgery, and it seemed to do the trick, travelling and jumping a lot better in himself. Up 6lb, he’s still on a workable mark on his best efforts.

CANARDIER (FR) 7 b g Crillon – Idylle Du Marais Trainer: Dermot A McLoughlin Owner: Slattery Bloodstock Ltd Progressive over hurdles during the summer winning nicely at Down Royal before chasing home Woodland Opera and Peregrine Rim at the same track a couple of months later. He was a very good winner of a Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in October, beating a subsequent Grade 3 winner by over 3-lengths. He’s been freshened up since that victory and comes into the Festival on a workable mark. He also has an entry in the Martin Pipe.

DIDTHEYLEAVEUOUTTO (IRE) 6 ch g Presenting – Pretty Puttens

Trainer: Nick Gifford Owner: John P McManus Many believed this son of Presenting would take high rank amongst the novice hurdlers this season, but despite defeating Thomas Darby at Ascot in November, things haven’t quite worked out form him. He was disappointing in the Betfair Hurdle last time, but he’s better than he showed there and it would be no surprise to see him bounce back, but he needs to.

GOLDEN SPEAR (GB)

8 ch g Kyllachy – Penmayne Trainer: A J Martin Owner: John Breslin Golden Spear was a very easy winner of a competitive handicap hurdle at Down Royal in November, making good headway before keeping on strongly to win by 5-lengths. The manner of that victory suggested there could be a lot more to come from him.

IVANOVICH GORBATOV (FR) 6 b m Montjeu – Northern Gulch Trainer: Joseph Patrick O’Brien Owner: John P McManus Ivanovich Gorbatov arguably won one of the best Triumph Hurdles we’ve seen in recent years in 2016 with Apple’s Jade, Clan Des Obeaux, Footpad, Frodon all in behind. It’s pretty staggering to think he hasn’t won a race since, but he has hit it the crossbar on a few occasions. He ran his best race in a while last time when finishing a good third behind Off You Go in a red-hot handicap hurdle at Leopardstown. He’ll relish a strong gallop and sound surface.

MONSIEUR LECOQ (FR) 5 b g Diamond Boy – Draga

Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams Owner: Mrs Jane Williams This son of Diamond Boy has won his last two outings in the style of a young horse going places.

Both those wins came on very testing ground, but I don’t see a sounder surface being a problem with many by this stallion actually preferring better ground conditions. It’ll be touch and go to whether he gets a run in this race, but if he does, he has to run a nice race.

PINGSHOU (IRE)

9 b g Definite Article – Quest Of Passion Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Ann & Alan Potts Limited Pingshou was a Grade 1 winner (possibly not the greatest of races) as a novice, but has found life tough since returning from a long absence. Things didn’t quite work out for him over fences early on this season and it was a little disappointing last time over hurdles at Haydock, but a drop back into handicap company in this contest could spark a revival.

SOUTHFIELD STONE (GB) 6 gr g Fair Mix – Laureldean Belle Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Mrs Angela Hart & Mrs Angela Yeoman Southfield Stone finds himself at the head of the betting for this contest after landing the Grade 2 Dovecote at Kempton last time. His trainer mentioned the Imperial Cup after that success, which is run on the Saturday before the Cheltenham Festival, so he’s by no means a certain runner in this contest, but if he wins the Imperial Cup, I’m sure his connections will be tempted by the Matchbook Bonus.

THOMAS DARBY (IRE) 6 b g Beneficial – Silaoce

Trainer: Olly Murphy Owner: Mrs Diana L Whatley I’ve always been a fan of this horse since he won his Bumper at Huntingdon last season in the style of a horse with a very bright future ahead of him. He made a very pleasing hurdling debut at Cheltenham, despite showing clear signs of greenness, he pulled nicely clear of Elixir De Nutz, who has since won a three-times, including a Grade 1. I don’t think the tracks at Ascot and Kempton played to his strengths on his next two outings, but he still performed with credit on each occasion. Thomas Darby is one of my selections for the Supreme, but I think he’d go well in this if connections switched him into handicap company.

URADEL (GER)

8 b g Kallisto – Unavita Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Luke McMahon Uradel is unexposed over hurdles and has shaped like a horse that can run a big race in one of these spring handicaps. His mark has plenty of scope for improvement, especially if you compare it to his Flat rating, which has risen to 102. I thought he ran a very nice race in the Ladbrokes Hurdle at Leopardstown, finishing fifth behind Off You Go. He wouldn’t certain to make the cut for this contest, but he has plenty of options at the meeting.

VISION D’HONNEUR (FR) 5 b g Vision D’Etat – Hembra Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud This lightly raced novice might lack the age/experience of some of the others, but he’s a horse that seems to have a lot of natural talent and could be ahead of the handicapper at present. His connections have earmarked the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle as his main target, but that could chance.

WESTERN RYDER (IRE) 7 b g Westerner – Seesea

Trainer: Warren Greatrex Owner: Albatross Club/Bryan Drew & Friends This son of Westerner has been a model of consistency for his connections this season, running very well in two valuable Graded handicaps, before placing in two Grade 2 races at Haydock and Cheltenham. His mark of 150 doesn’t make things easy here, but he’s tough, handles the track and pretty versatile regards ground conditions.

WHISKEY SOUR (IRE)

6 b g Jeremy – Swizzle Stick Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Luke McMahon Whiskey Sour ran a nice race in this race 12-months ago to finish third on ground possibly a little softer than ideal. He was previously a very fortunate winner of a Grade 1 after two of his stable mates fell at the last, but he did finish 19-lengths ahead of Le Richebourg. He’s on a workable mark for this and represents top connections. He also holds an entry in the Coral Cup.

WONDER LAISH (GB)

7 b g Halling – Wonder Why Trainer: C Byrnes Owner: Martin White Wonder Laish was a useful horse on the Flat and has replicated those exploits over hurdles this season, winning two handicaps in very good style, including a very valuable contest at Fairyhouse.

He was disappointing in the Ladbrokes Hurdle at Leopardstown last time and will need to bounce back here, but he might.

Verdict These handicaps aren’t getting any easier and this looks one of the toughest of the meeting this year. Pingshou could be an interesting runner off his current mark on the pick of his best efforts, he hasn’t won since landing a Grade 1 at Aintree a couple of seasons back, but spring might be the best time to catch him. Western Ryder does what he says on the tin, he’s a consistent sort, but might just be a little high in the handicap for win purposes. Didtheyleaveuouto is starting to look rather disappointing, but I’m certain he’s better than he’s shown the last twice. Maybe he just isn’t as good as we all expected, but it would be no surprise to see him run a race here. I’m hoping IVANOVICH GORBATOV can roll back the years and land this contest over the same C&D as his biggest success in the 2016 Triumph Hurdle. He hasn’t exactly pulled up many trees since his win in that race, but I think it’s fair to say, he’s only had his ideal conditions a handful of times since, this strongly run handicap on a decent surface should suit him very well. Monsieur Lecoq has won his last two outings in very good fashion and has to be respected in this for Mrs Jane Williams. His new mark asks for a lot more in this company, but he might just have the necessary improvement up his sleeve to have a big say in things. I fancy THOMAS DARBY to run well in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, which seems connections first choice, but if he was switched into handicap company, I’d expect him to go very well off a mark of 140. Whiskey Sour ran well in this 12-months ago on ground possibly a little softer than ideal. He’s on a workable mark at present and could go well again on this likely sounder surface.

Selection: IVANOVICH GORBATOV@16/1 Each-Way & THOMAS DARBY@25/1 Each-Way

ALBERT BARTLETT NOVICES' HURDLE GRADE 1

ALLAHO (FR)

5 b g No Risk At All – Idaho Falls Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Cheveley Park Stud

Allaho built on the promise he showed on his stable debut in a bumper (form worked out) at Leopardstown on Boxing Day to land a Grade 3 on his hurdling debut last time, relishing the trip. This will be a lot tougher and it will only be his second run over hurdles, but he’s clearly well-regarded and has a lot of natural ability.

BIRCHDALE (IRE) 5 b g Jeremy – Onewayortheother Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Birchdale looks a horse with a very bright future ahead of him and there’s no doubt that his future will be over fences in time. He was a very easy winner at Warwick on his debut, winning by 4-lengths in a race that has produced a few winners since. He was a length down in second at Cheltenham last time when the leader (Brewin’Upastorm) fell at the last and he was left with a clear lead to record a large margin win. I personally think he’d have been beaten on that occasion, but we’ll never know. He can only improve, but this might come too soon for this 5yo.

COMMANDER OF FLEET (IRE) 5 b g Fame And Glory – Coonagh Cross Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud I’m a fan of this son of Fame And Glory and I think he’s a horse with a lot of raw talent. He was a very good winner of a Bumper at the Punchestown Festival last season and has looked very good over hurdles this season. He was a good winner on his debut at Punchestown despite showing some clear signs of inexperience, he was pitched into the Grade 1 Royal Bond on his second start, but was unsuited by the drop back to 2m. He bounced back in fine style last time upped to 2m6f at Leopardstown, staying on very well to beat Rhinestone. This 3m trip will be right up his street.

DINONS (FR)

6 b g Balko – Beni Abbes Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: T O’Driscoll Dinons has been a revelation for his connections this season, winning 5-times, including a Novices’ Hurdle over this C&D by 14-lengths. He finished seventh when we last seen him, but that doesn’t tell half the story. He was still going well, almost on terms with the leaders before getting badly hampered by a faller and nearly being brought down. He’s been given a break since that effort, which looks a good move by his connections, he’s a big price here, but he ticks plenty of boxes.

DERRINROSS (IRE)

8 b g Scorpion – Cybele Eria Trainer: J P Dempsey Owner: Mrs M Furlong/Ex D J Dempsey/J P Dempsey

Second season novice; Derrinross showed some useful form over hurdles last season despite failing to win. He’s been suited by the step up to 3m this season winning a Grade 3 at Cork by 4-lengths before landing a Grade 2 at Limerick on his next start. This son of Scorpion is yet to race on a sounder surface, and has been a non-runner twice on Yielding/Good ground, which would be a big concern to his chances/participation in this race. If he gets some rain, he’s capable of running a nice race here.

DICKIE DIVER (IRE)

6 b g Gold Well – Merry Excuse Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus I’m a big fan of this son of Gold Well and I can’t wait to see him tackle a fence next season. He was a very impressive winner of his point-to-point at Templenacarriga by 20-lengths before being picked up for £210,000 at the sales. He was possibly unlucky not to win on his rules debut at Chepstow, but that was an above average Novices’ Hurdle with the winner (Lisnagar Oscar) landing a Grade 2 by 10-lengths on his next start. He’s undoubtedly a horse with a very bright future, and I’m undecided if this contest will be too much too soon for him.

LISNAGAR OSCAR (IRE) 6 b g Oscar – Asta Belle

Trainer: Rebecca Curtis Owner: Racing For Fun This horse has always been held in very high-regard by his connections and he’s shown why this season, finishing second in a Grade 2 over this C&D, before landing a Grade 2 in his own right by 10-lengths at Haydock last time.

He’s a tough, improving horse that travels well in his races, which you need in a race of this nature.

His trainer won this with At Fishers Cross in 2013.

RELEGATE (IRE) 6 b m Flemensfirth – Last Of The Bunch Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Paul McKeon

Relegate had a fruitful campaign last season in bumpers, which included a win in the Champion Bumper. She hasn’t exactly set the world on fire over hurdles this season, but I thought she was a huge eyecatcher behind Commander Of Fleet last time. She didn’t jump great throughout and got herself detached, before staying on very well at the finish. I think a return to Cheltenham over this trip could see this mare in a much better light.

Verdict Dickie Diver is a horse with a serious future ahead of him, especially when tackling a fence next season, but he’s looked useful over hurdles this campaign. He finished a head second to subsequent Grade 2 winner Lisnagar Oscar at Chepstow, before winning easily over the same C&D on his next start. It’s a cliché that’s always used in National Hunt racing, but he’s undoubtedly a chaser in the making, but it would be no surprise to see him go very close in this.

Similar comments apply to his stablemate Birchdale, who going by the current betting for this race, looks likely to join him in this contest. I thought he was a fortunate winner last time at Cheltenham, but that experience won’t be lost on him. Commander Of Fleet deserves his place at the head of the betting for this being the only Grade 1 winner in the race over hurdles. He needed every yard of the 2m6f last time at Leopardstown last time and should be well suited to this C&D on a sound surface. I like the look of his stable companion DINONS in this race. Many of these look work in progresses or lack experience, but this horse is tough and experience, which is what you need to win this contest, and he also has a 14-lengths C&D win to his name. He was in the process of running a big race in a Grade 3 at Navan last time, but was hampered by a faller.

Given a break since, he has all the credentials to run a big race in this. The one I fear the most would be the mare Relegate, who needed plenty of stamina to land the Champion Bumper at this meeting last season. I thought she was a huge eyecatcher behind Commander Of Fleet last time and will relish this C&D. It would be no surprise to see her bang there at the business end, but the last Champion Bumper winner that followed up over hurdles in the following season was Champagne Fever, who landed the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle in 2013.

Selection: DINONS @25/1 Each-Way

MAGNERS CHELTENHAMÂ GOLD CUP GRADE 1

BELLSHILL (IRE)

9 b g King’s Theatre – Fairy Native Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Andrea & Graham Wylie Bellshill was a good winner of the Punchestown Gold Cup on his final start of the 2017/18 season, defeating Road To Respect by over 8-lengths. He built on his promising return to the tack in the Grade 1 Savills Chase at Leopardstown behind stablemate Kemboy to land a Grade 1 of his own, defeat his old rival Road To Respect by a short-head in the Irish Gold Cup. Bellshill has a very good profile for this race, he jumps well, has useful Cheltenham form, confirmed stayer and is versatile regards ground conditions. He could run another big race here.

CLAN DES OBEAUX (FR)

7 b g Kapgarde – Nausicaa Des Obeaux Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Mr & Mrs P K Barber, G Mason & Sir A Ferguson This son of Kapgarde has always been held in high-regard by Paul Nicholls and he showed why when causing a small shock in the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day. That was arguably the day Clan Des Obeaux became a man, and it’s arguable the best piece of form on offer heading into the 2019 Gold Cup. He’s never won at Cheltenham, but he was a good second to Whisper in the Dipper Novices’ Chase as a 5yo, possibly would have won if he’d jumped better. I was very impressed with him in the Denman Chase last time, travelling and jumping extremely well, he’s had an uninterrupted preparation heading into the Gold Cup, unlike some of his rivals.

DEFINITLY RED (IRE)

10 ch g Definite Article – The Red Wench Trainer: Brian Ellison Owner: Phil & Julie Martin Definitly Red was arguably the best backed horse in the Gold Cup last season, many expecting the Soft ground to be firmly in his favour, but like many in the race, he couldn’t land a blow on Native River and Might Bite. He had a pretty hard race in the Cotswold Chase on Heavy ground last season prior to his run in the Gold Cup, which in hindsight, affected his chances in the big-one.

He’s taken a similar route this season, winning both the Charlie Hall Chase (finished third last season) and Many Clouds Chase, but connections have skipped the Cotswold Chase this year in favour of Kelso, where he got beat in a tactical two-runner race. The horse that beat him is no mug, but we know he’s better than that. Shouldn’t be dismissed.

FRODON (FR)

7 b g Nickname – Miss County Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: P J Vogt Frodon has had brilliant campaign to date, landing the Old Roan Chase on his seasonal debut, landing the valuable Caspian Caviar Gold Cup, before following up in the Grade 2 Cotswold Chase over 3m. Many didn’t think he stayed on that occasion, I couldn’t disagree more. Admittedly, he had an easy time of things in the lead and looked a tired horse, but the rail positions added more than 150 yards to the official distance that day, which meant the race was not far off the Gold Cup trip, and he still had enough in the tank to hold-off a Welsh National winner. His connections seem keen to let him take his chance in this, which I think is the correct call as he’s more than earned his ticket.

KEMBOY (FR)

7 b g Voix Du Nord – Vitora Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Supreme Horse Racing & Brett T Graham & K Sharp Kemboy ended last season in good style, winning a Grade 3 at Limerick by 8-lengths before following up in a valuable Novice Handicap Chase at Punchestown, again, winning in easily. He’s picked up where he left off this season, winning both his starts, including the Grade 1 Savills Chase by over 7-lengths under a fine ride from David Mullins. He’s a very likeable sort that’s quickly developed into a high-class staying chaser this season. He’s a sound jumper that’ll stay the 3m2f perfectly well and is versatile regards ground conditions. He bids to end Willie Mullins first Cheltenham Gold Cup winner.

MIGHT BITE (IRE)

10 b g Scorpion – Knotted Midge Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: The Knot Again Partnership High-class on his day; Might Bite has been barely a shadow of the horse he was last season this campaign, and has a lot of questions to answer heading into this year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup. I thought he had reasonable excuses for his defeat in the Betfair Chase, but he had no excuses for his flop in the King George VI Chase on Boxing Day, a race he won in great style 12-months earlier. His connections are reportedly operating on his breathing before to his run in the Gold Cup, which could help him finish his races off better, but it’s difficult for any horse to win a Gold Cup without a run in the same calendar year, never mind one that’s seemingly lost his way.

NATIVE RIVER (IRE)

9 ch g Indian River – Native Mo Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: Brocade Racing Many that followed last year’s ‘Cheltenham Festival Preview’ will know Native River was my NAP of the meeting and he delivered in grand style. He’s held his form well this season, running good races in the Betfair Chase/King George, tracks that are unlikely to play to his strengths. He’s likely to give it another good go this year despite not many horses in the history of the race winning back to back Gold Cups. He’s a consistent performer that jumps and stays all day, if he gets an easy time in front, he looks more than capable of repeating last season’s success.

Solid place contender.

PRESENTING PERCY (GB) 8 b g Sir Percy – Hunca Munca Trainer: Patrick G Kelly Owner: Philip J Reynolds Presenting Percy has the ideal profile for a Cheltenham Gold Cup, he jumps well, he stays well (winner over 3m5f), he’s a two-time Cheltenham Festival winner over 3m and he’s one of the best rated RSA Novices’ Chase winners of the last decade. His performance in that race last season was one of, if not the best performance of the entire meeting in my opinion and from the moment he crossed the line, I believed he’d be solid contender for this race. He won well in the Galmoy Hurdle on his return, always travelling well before finishing his race off well. He ticks a lot of boxes and sets the standard.

ROAD TO RESPECT (IRE) 8 ch g Gamut – Lora Lady

Trainer: Noel Meade Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Road To Respect ran well-enough in last season’s Gold Cup, but could never get into contention.

I’m personally not convinced he stayed the trip on the day, possibly due to the testing ground conditions. He looked better than ever when landing the Grade 1 JNwine.com Champion Chase by 16-lengths on his seasonal return, before finding himself in all-sorts of trouble in the Savills Chase, doing well to finish third. I don’t think he jumped well enough in the Irish Gold Cup last time, that was only a four-runner race, his jumping will come under greater scrutiny here. He’s a good staying chaser on his day, but I’d be disappointed if he was good enough to win a Gold Cup.

THISTLECRACK (GB) 11 b g Kayf Tara – Ardstown Trainer: Colin Tizzard Owner: John and Heather Snook Thistlecrack has been a grand horse over the years for his connections, winning five Grade 1’s, including the 2016 King George IV Chase as a novice. He’s hasn’t tasted success since that day and has obviously had his problems, but he’s offered plenty of hope in his runs this season that the fire is still burning in him yet. He didn’t jump great in the Betfair Chase on his return but still managed to finish third without being given a hard time by his rider. He found the younger legs of Clan Des Obeaux too much when running a brilliant race in defeat in the King George on Boxing Day, pulling 12-lengths clear of Native River. It would bring the roof down if he could land this.

Verdict This looks a cracking renewal of the Magners Cheltenham Gold Cup with good cases to be made for plenty of the runners. Kemboy and Bellshill bid to become Willie Mullins first winner of the Gold Cup, which is astonishing when you think of the brilliant horses and great chances he’s had in the race over the years. Kemboy is one of the youngest in the field in this season’s Gold Cup, and has looked a staying chaser going places this campaign. His form in the Savills Chase gives him a solid shout, but his form at Cheltenham isn’t as strong as some in the field, and the form of the JLT Novices’ Chase from last season has taken some knocks this campaign. Bellshill would be preferred, he ticks a lot of boxes, including ground, distance, course and jumping, which makes him a strong place contender in my eyes. Thistlecrack has been a fantastic horse for Colin Tizzard, and there’s no doubt the engine is still there, but he’s not getting any younger now, there’s no many 11yo’s that can win a Gold Cup, never mind one that has had the issues he’s had. Clan Des Obeaux arguably has the best piece of form on offer from this current season heading into the race, and in my opinion, I think he should be the favourite for the race. This will be a completely different test to what he faced in the King George, but he’s a young staying chaser going the right way and he’s possibly had the best preparation heading into the race. On his day Might Bite has the class to play a leading role, but it’s a guessing game to what Might Bite will turn up, he’s overlooked here. I’ve been sweet on PRESENTING PERCY for this race since he stormed up the hill in the RSA Novices’ Chase last season, looking every inch a future Gold Cup winner in the process. He has everything you need in a Gold Cup horse, in the sense, he’ll stay the distance extremely well (3m5f winner), he jumps very well, he has plenty of experience around Cheltenham and he’s versatile regards ground/tactics. He’s a horse I posted on my Twitter very early on in the season when a general 6/1 chance, despite his price contracting since, I still think he’s a bet at his current price and he should take plenty of beating on the day. There’s no doubt that Native River had ground conditions in his favour last season when winning the Gold Cup, but he’s definitely effective on a sounder surface. He’s ran well this campaign in defeat over course and distances on the sharp-side for him, in fifth gear most of the way before sticking to the task well. I think he’ll run another brave race in the Gold Cup, his training/racing has undoubtedly revolved around this race. I think Definitly Red is the dark horse in the field this season, he was expected to run a big race in this last season, very well backed on the day, but he ran pretty flat and could never land a blow. He’s a fresher horse this season and I think connections learnt a lot from last year. He got beat in his prep run at Kelso by Captain Redbeard, but it was a tactical tworunner race and he wasn’t given a hard time. He’s capable of grabbing a place.

Selection: PRESENTING PERCY @4/1 Win (Ante-Post 6/1 Win)

JOHNNY HENDERSON GRAND ANNUAL HANDICAP CHASE GRADE 3

BALLYWOOD (FR)

5 b g Ballingarry – Miss Hollywood Trainer: Alan King Owner: Highclere Thoroughbred Racing – Ballywood Ballywood has shown plenty of ability in novice company this season, winning twice before bumping into previous Grade 1 winner Dynamite Dollars at Doncaster in a Grade 2. He travelled and jumped very well, but was no match for the winner. He comes into this contest on a mark of 140, which has scope for further progress, but it won’t be an easy assignment.

BLAZER (FR)

8 ch g Network – Juppelongue Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: John P McManus Blazer finished fourth in the Coral Cup over hurdles off a similar mark to this a few seasons back and is undoubtedly on a mark he can be competitive off. I think a strongly run 2m will bring out the best in him and the form of his third at Fairyhouse in January is good enough to allow him to get competitive.

BRELAN D’AS (FR)

8 b g Crillon – Las De La Croix Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: John P McManus Brelan D’As has always promised that he had the ability to develop into an above average sort and we’ve started to see the best of him this season over fences. He’s clearly a horse that needs top of the ground to be at his best, which he’ll likely get in this contest. He won nicely at Fakenham last time, despite jumping out to his right on a few occasions. His mark of 136 has scope for further improvement. He represents last season’s winning connections.

BUN DORAN (IRE)

8 b g Shantou – Village Queen Trainer: Tom George Owner: Crossed Fingers Partnership Bun Doran was a good winner over this C&D back in November before running a good race in second off a 10lb higher mark a month later. He’s possibly a little high in the handicap at present, but he’s a horse that saves his best form for Cheltenham and he’s a consistent sort.

CLONDAW CASTLE (IRE) 7 b g Oscar – Lohort Castle

Trainer: Tom George Owner: J French, D McDermott, S Nelson, T Syder Clondaw Castle finds himself at the head of the market for this contest at the time of writing, and it’s easy to see why. He’s looked very good since switched to larger obstacles this season, winning his last two races in the style of a horse firmly on an upward curve. A 10lb rise for his recent win asks a lot more of him. He also holds an entry in the Novices’ Handicap Chase on the Tuesday.

DUCA DE THAIX (FR)

6 b g Voix Du Nord – Nouca De Thaix Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Duca De Thaix has been a model of consistency this season for his connections over 2m. He had his limitations exposed in Grade 1 company last time at Leopardstown, but has to be of interest back in a handicap. His current mark will ask more of him.

EAMON AN CNOIC (IRE)

8 b g Westerner – Nutmeg Tune Trainer: David Pipe Owner: The Angove Family This son of Westerner ran well for a long way in the Ultima last season, but just failed to get home over the trip on the very testing ground. He made good use of an attractive looking handicap mark to win last time over 2m at Chepstow, but I’m a bit sceptical about how strong a race that was. He jumps well.

LE PREZIEN (FR)

8 br g Blue Bresil – Abu Dhabi Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: John P McManus Le Prezien was an impressive winner of this race last season, powering up the hill to record a 4-lengths victory. He comes into this season’s renewal on a 1lb higher mark, which gives him a great chance from a handicapping perspective, and he’s goon on better ground in the past. He should run a big race.

MAGIC SAINT (FR)

5 b g Saint Des Saints – Magic Poline Trainer: Paul Nicholls Owner: Mr And Mrs J D Cotton Magic Saint finds himself at the head of the betting for this race after a very impressive victory recently at Wincanton. The handicapper has given him a 7lb rise for that success, which looks very fair on the face of things, but this will undoubtedly be a totally different test. I think the stiffer nature of this C&D will suit this son of Saints Des Saints.

MIND’S EYE (IRE)

7 b g Stowaway – Joleen Trainer: Henry De Bromhead Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Mind’s Eye was no match for Voix De Reve on his chase debut at Galway, but he got off the mark at the second time of asking with at Wexford with Duca De Thaix, Us And Them and Poker Party in behind. He disappointed in Grade 1 company behind Delta Work and Le Richebourg. He ran a nice race on his handicap chase debut last time at this stiffer 2m will suit him down to the ground.

WHATSWRONGWITHYOU (IRE) 8 ch g Bienamado – Greenfield Noora

Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: 5 Hertford Street Racing Club Progressive 2m chaser; Whatswrongwithyou finished a good second behind Brelan D’As on his chase debut before narrowly getting off the mark at Ffos Las next time out. He effortlessly brushed aside Amour De Nuit by 17-lengths on his latest outing at Fontwell that should put him spot on for this contest.

Verdict Le Prezien stormed up the hill to win this race last season and comes into this year’s renewal on just a 1lb higher mark. His win last year came on very testing ground conditions, but he’s proven he’s just as affective on better ground in the past. He has to run a nice race from a handicapping perspective. Paul Nicholls also has the improving Magic Saint in the field, who won in very good style last time. I thought a 7lb rise for that win was very fair, but this race will ask a few more questions of him. Whatswrongwithyou finds himself at the head of the market for this contest, but has only has two wins in small-field novice chases to his name. He’s going to need a lot more if he’s going to get competitive in this contest. I’ve sided with MIND’S EYE, who may or may not run in this contest at the Cheltenham Festival, but he’s really starting to get the hang of this jumping game now. He stayed on well from an unpromising position on his handicap chase debut last time and give the impression he’s on a workable mark. I think this stiffer track and stronger gallop will suit him well. Bun Doran saves his best form for Cheltenham and won a handicap in fine style earlier in the campaign. He could only finish second off his revised mark last time, but has been freshened up since, it would be no surprise to see him run into the frame.

Selection: MIND’S EYE @25/1 Each-Way

MARTIN PIPE CONDITIONAL JOCKEYS' HANDICAP HURDLE CLASS 2

ACAPELLA BOURGEOIS (FR) 9 ch g Network – Jasmine

Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Slaneyville Syndicate Acapella Bourgeois holds a couple of entries over hurdles at the Cheltenham Festival, including in this contest. We haven’t seen him for 423-days, but on the pick of his best form over fences, he could be a very well handicapped horse. First time out might be the best time to catch him, but this won’t be easy.

APPLE’S SHAKIRA (FR)

5 b m Saddler Maker – Apple’s For Ever Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: John P McManus Apple’s Shakira is possibly more well-known for being the full-sister to the brilliant Apple’s Jade than for what she has achieved on the track herself. She looked to have the world at her feet as a juvenile, but has seemingly regressed since her defeat in a weak renewal of the Triumph Hurdle.

She holds an entry in a few races at the meeting, if she can recapture her best form, she’s well enough handicapped to run a nice race.

BIG TIME DANCER (IRE) 6 b g Zoffany – Final Opinion

Trainer: Jennie Candlish Owner: Andy Bell Anna Noble Arnie Flower Big Time Dancer was a good winner of the Lanzarote Hurdle last time at Kempton, up 9lb, a mark of 134 doesn’t guarantee him a run in this contest, but he has the form and profile to have a big say in things. He’s been at his best on flat tracks.

CANARDIER (FR)

7 b g Crillon – Idylle Du Marais Trainer: Dermot A McLoughlin Owner: Slattery Bloodstock Ltd Progressive over hurdles during the summer winning nicely at Down Royal before chasing home Woodland Opera and Peregrine Rim at the same track a couple of months later. He was a very good winner of a Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in October, beating a subsequent Grade 3 winner by over 3-lengths. He’s been freshened up since that victory and comes into the Festival on a workable mark. He also has an entry in the County Hurdle.

COOLANLY (IRE) 7 b g Flemensfirth – La Fisarmonica Trainer: Fergal O’Brien Owner: Five Go Racing Coolanly was a good winner of a Grade 2 over this C&D back in November, defeating the promising Pym by over 3-lengths. He was soundly beaten in Grade 1 company on his next start in the Challow Hurdle and was beaten at odds-on last time at Wetherby. He needs to improve to land this, but on the pick of his best form, a mark of 140 is workable.

DALLAS DES PICTONS (FR) 6 b g Spanish Moon – Nadia Des Pictons Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Dallas Des Pictons heads the market for this contest currently and it’s easy to see why. He finished a good second behind the very smart City Island at Leopardstown on Boxing Day, before easily landing a maiden at Punchestown on his next outing. I thought he won easier than the winning margin at Leopardstown on handicap debut last time and looked value for a lot more. He should have more to come.

DEFI BLEU (FR)

6 b g Saddler Maker – Glycine Bleue Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: Gigginstown House Stud Defi Bleu is a real chaser in the making but he’s shown a good level of form over hurdles this season. He ran a very good race behind Derrinross in a Grade 2 at Limerick on his penultimate start, before disappointing when well supported for a Grade 1 last time at Leopardstown. He could be on a good mark.

GALVIN (IRE)

5 b g Gold Well – Burren Moonshine Trainer: Gordon Elliott Owner: R A Bartlett Galvin hasn’t beaten much in any of his five races to date, but he’s unbeaten and is a horse clearly going to right way. He defeated a 125 rated rival in workmanlike fashion last time at Ayr, but I’m not convinced he handled the Soft ground on that occasion. He needs a lot more if he’s going to remain unbeaten.

GETAREASON (IRE)

6 ch g Getaway – Simple Reason Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Sullivan Bloodstock Limited Experienced novice; Getareason has some useful pieces of form to his name, including a good third behind Battleoverdoyen in Grade 1 company at Naas. He has a likeable profile for this contest and hails from a stable that have a good record in this race.

MONSIEUR LECOQ (FR) 5 b g Diamond Boy – Draga

Trainer: Mrs Jane Williams Owner: Mrs Jane Williams This son of Diamond Boy has won his last two outings in the style of a young horse going places.

Both those wins came on very testing ground, but I don’t see a sounder surface being a problem with many by this stallion actually preferring better ground conditions. It’ll be touch and go to whether he gets a run in this race, but if he does, he has to run a nice race.

PYM (IRE)

6 b g Stowaway – Liss Rua Trainer: Nicky Henderson Owner: Mrs Patricia Pugh On form, it’s pretty difficult to fancy Pym, but he does give me the impression he’s a lot better than he’s shown to date. He finished second in a Grade 2 over this C&D earlier in the season, which offers some hope, but he undoubtedly needs more. Hailing from the Nicky Henderson stable, he’ll have a good conditional booked.

URADEL (GER)

8 b g Kallisto – Unavita Trainer: W P Mullins Owner: Luke McMahon Uradel is unexposed over hurdles and has shaped like a horse that can run a big race in one of these spring handicaps. His mark has plenty of scope for improvement, especially if you compare it to his Flat rating, which has risen to 102. I thought he ran a very nice race in the Ladbrokes Hurdle at Leopardstown, finishing fifth behind Off You Go. He wouldn’t certain to make the cut for this contest, but he has plenty of options at the meeting.

Verdict An intriguing handicap to end what will have hopefully been another fantastic Cheltenham Festival for everyone. Getareason has plenty of experience to his name and has placed form in Grade 1 company when finishing third behind Battleoverdoyen. He’s on a workable mark for this contest that’ll be his first attempt at handicap company. Big Time Dancer has been in good form this season with successes including the Lanzarote Hurdle at Kempton. He won’t be certain of a run in this contest, but if he can sneak in at the bottom of the weights, he has to have a shout.

Canardier was a C&D winner earlier in the season and is another entitled to plenty of respect for Dermot McLoughlin. I like URADEL in this for Willie Mullins, who does well in this contest. He’s a grand horse on the Flat (rated 102) and relatively unexposed over hurdles. He should have plenty more to come over this sort of trip and I can see him running a big race. Dallas Des Pictons has to be respected on form and given the fact his connections won this race last season with Blow By Blow.

Selection: URADEL @8/1 Win