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Tuesday 12th March

RACING1-2-3 CHELTENHAM

1.30 SKY BET SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade 1) (1) 2m87y (3300 Metres) RACE 1 (1) AL DANCER (FR) | (18) FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES (FR) | (2) ANGELS BREATH (IRE) RACING POST ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ CHASE (Grade 1) (1) 1m7f199y (3200 2.10 Metres) RACE 2 (4) GLEN FORSA (IRE) | (3) DUC DES GENIEVRES (FR) | (5) HARDLINE (IRE) 2.50 ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE (Grade 3) (1) 3m1f (5030 Metres) RACE 3 (4) MINELLA ROCCO (IRE) | (14) UP FOR REVIEW (IRE) | (6) MISTER WHITAKER (IRE) 3.30 UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE CHALLENGE TROPHY (Grade 1) (1) 2m87y (3300 Metres) RACE 4 (8) APPLE’S JADE (FR) | (2) BUVEUR D’AIR (FR) | (9) LAURINA (FR) 4.10 OLBG MARES’ HURDLE (David Nicholson) (Grade 1) (1) 2m3f200y (4010 Metres) RACE 5 (2) BENIE DES DIEUX (FR) | (13) ROKSANA (IRE) | (10) LIMINI (IRE) 4.50 CLOSE BROTHERS NOVICES’ HANDICAP CHASE (Listed) (1) 2½m44y (4060 Metres) RACE 6 (7) TOWER BRIDGE (IRE) | (4) A PLUS TARD (FR) | (14) RIDERS ONTHE STORM (IRE) NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP AMATEUR RIDERS’ NOVICES’ CHASE (Grade 2) (1) 3m7f147y 5.30 (6370 Metres) RACE 7 (1) BALLYWARD (IRE) | (13) OK CORRAL (IRE) | (17) WHISPERINTHEBREEZE

KEY TO SYMBOLS

Top Rated: The horse with the best chance based solely on past form, specially tailored to a 0-100 scale.

Horses For Courses: A suitable track for the horse, compared to its lifetime record on similar courses as defined by Timeform’s course data.

Jockey Uplift: The engaged rider has a notably higher Timeform Jockey Ranking than those who’ve ridden the horse on its most recent starts

Trainer Form: A hot trainer to follow, based on Timeform ratings-related measurements looking at the recent performance of runners. CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 2 of 12 SKY BET SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade 1) (1) 4yo+ 1.30 £125,000 2m87y (3300 Metres) RACE 1

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 MISTER FISHER (IRE) (52) (D) 96 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 10-211 5 11-7 | 73.0kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Nicky Henderson James Bowen than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Form of his Boxing Day win at Kempton worked out and he followed up himself especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just in a Grade 2 at Haydock, again travelling well. No surprise if he had more to offer. two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field De Boinville has chosen Angels Breath. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 NORMAL NORMAN (17) (D) 84 1P-212713 5 11-7 | 73.0kg Pace Information: Extreme John Ryan Paddy Brennan Gained a second win over hurdles in handicap at Musselburgh on New Year’s 1 AL DANCER (FR) (24) (CD) 100 Day. Held in third behind Angels Breath in the Dovecote next time though and 2314-1111 6 11-7 | 73.0kg up against it here. Nigel Twiston-Davies Sam Twiston-Davies Made it 4 from 4 over jumps under this rider with an impressive display in the 13 THE BIG BITE (IRE) (76) (D) 92 Betfair Hurdle at Ascot. Won handicap here in fine style before that and good 1/10-114 6 11-7 | 73.0kg chance he has more to offer. Big shout. Tom George Noel Fehily Dual hurdles winner not seen to best effect behind Mister Fisher at Kempton and 2 ANGELS BREATH (IRE) (17) (BF) 97 could have a bigger effort in him for last year’s successful yard and rider. 12 5 11-7 | 73.0kg Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville Point winner who pulled clear in Ascot Grade 2 on debut under Rules and 14 THE FLYING SOFA (FR) (15) (BF) 82 enhanced his reputation in defeat when second in the Dovecote last month, the 3310-322 6 11-7 | 73.0kg sharper test not ideal. More to come from him. Gary Moore Jamie Moore Useful bumper winner who has shown plenty in 3 defeats in novice/maiden 3 ARAMON (GER) (37) (D) 98 hurdles this year but unlikely to be good enough to be involved in this at the 121312 6 11-7 | 73.0kg business end. W. P. Mullins, Ireland P. Townend Has won 3 times for this yard, including a Grade 1 at Leopardstown over 15 THOMAS DARBY (IRE) (52) (CD) 96 Christmas by 10 lengths. Thwarted by stablemate Klassical Dream in Grade 1 11231 6 11-7 | 73.0kg there last time and needs to reverse that form now. Olly Murphy Richard Johnson Successful hurdles debut here in October from Elixir de Nutz and has improved, 4 BEAUFORT WEST (IRE) (38) (BF) 80 chasing home Mister Fisher at Kempton before returning to winning ways at 9462 5 11-7 | 73.0kg Taunton. Could have even more to offer. Colin Tizzard Robbie Power Maiden hurdler back on track when second at Sandown last month but firmly 16 TOKAY DOKEY (IRE) (17) (D) 90 up against it here. 111F 5 11-7 | 73.0kg Dan Skelton Harry Skelton Won his first 3 starts (2 novice hurdles at Uttoxeter) before falling early after 3 5 BRANDON CASTLE (15) h+t 94 months off in the Dovecote. Should have more to offer but a massive step up 111 7 11-7 | 73.0kg required to get competitive in this. Neil King Bryony Frost Useful Flat performer who has won his first 3 starts over hurdles at Plumpton 17 VISION D’HONNEUR (FR) (37) (D) t 93 (2m) from the front under Bryony Frost, readily so on handicap debut a fortnight 413 5 11-7 | 73.0kg ago. Place claims at a huge price. Gordon Elliott, Ireland J. W. Kennedy French recruit who won 2m Punchestown maiden in January and improved 6 ELIXIR DE NUTZ (FR) (66) (CD) 95 plenty when chasing home Klassical Dream and Aramon in Leopardstown Grade 16-F2111 5 11-7 | 73.0kg 1 latest. Tongue tie now on and could progress again. Colin Tizzard Tom O’Brien On a roll after victories here (2, including over C&D) and in the Tolworth at 18 FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES (FR) (45) (CD) 99 Sandown, proving game to see off Grand Sancy there. Will need to improve 264F11 4 10-13 | 69.4kg again to win this, but may very well do so. Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland J. J. Slevin Exciting prospect who is 2-2 since joining Joseph O’Brien, following up Cork 7 FELIX DESJY (FR) (58) (D) 93 victory with impressive display in Grade 2 here over a bit further. Major player in 165-17521 6 11-7 | 73.0kg receipt of 8 lb allowance. Gordon Elliott, Ireland Sean Flanagan Sixth in the Champion Bumper last year and has made up into a useful hurdler, 18 DECLARED RUNNERS making all dropped back to 2m in Punchestown Grade 2 8 weeks ago. More improvement needed to figure in this, though. BETTING FORECAST: 7-2 Al Dancer, 4-1 Angels Breath, 15-2 Fakir D’oudairies, 12-1 Grand Sancy, 12-1 8 GRAND SANCY (FR) (24) (D) h 98 Elixir De Nutz, 14-1 Klassical Dream, 14-1 Mister Fisher, 25-1 Felix Desjy, 25-1 Vision P-1211421 5 11-7 | 73.0kg D’honneur, 33-1 Aramon, 33-1 Thomas Darby, 50-1 bar Paul Nicholls Harry Cobden Won 3 times in the autumn and, having been thwarted by Elixir de Nutz at TIMEFORM VIEW: Sandown, improved again when taking the Kingwell at Wincanton last month. AL DANCER was most impressive when taking apart a good field at Ascot and can retain Has plenty of the right qualities to go well in this. his unbeaten record over hurdles with another big win, the prospect of a well-run race 9 ITCHY FEET (FR) (114) (D) 96 sure to see him in the best light. Juvenile Fakir d’Oudairies looks a key player, as does the 2-1112 5 11-7 | 73.0kg exciting, well-backed Angels Breath, the choice of Nico de Boinville over stablemate Olly Murphy Gavin Sheehan Mister Fisher. Impressive bumper winner on return then won first 2 starts over hurdles (beat Grand Sancy at Kempton). Good second to Elixir de Nutz (in receipt of 5 lb) over TIMEFORM 1-2-3: C&D when last seen and place claims. 1. AL DANCER (FR) 2. FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES (FR) 3. ANGELS BREATH (IRE)

10 KLASSICAL DREAM (FR) (37) (D) 98 WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: P324P-11 5 11-7 | 73.0kg 2018 Summerville Boy 6-11-7 9-1 Tom George Noel Fehily 19 W. P. Mullins, Ireland R. Walsh 2017 Labaik 6-11-7 25-1 Gordon Elliott J. W. Kennedy 14 Has won both his starts over 2m at Leopardstown for Willie Mullins, following up 2016 Altior 6-11-7 4-1 Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville 14 maiden victory with a game display to beat stablemate Aramon in Grade 1 last 2015 Douvan 5-11-7 2-1f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 12 month. Will go on improving. 2014 Vautour 5-11-7 7-2jf W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 18 CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 3 of 12 SKY BET SUPREME NOVICES’ HURDLE (Grade 1) (1) 4yo+ 1.30 £125,000 2m87y (3300 Metres) RACE 1

SMART STATS: 3 W. P. Mullins’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (amongst 2 runners saddles: KLASSICAL DREAM) £92.17 Neil King’s profit to a £1 level stake when having only one runner on the card (hurdles) (saddles: BRANDON CASTLE) 31% W. P. Mullins’s strike rate with hurdlers at up to 2m2f (saddles: KLASSICAL DREAM and ARAMON) CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 4 of 12 RACING POST ARKLE CHALLENGE TROPHY NOVICES’ CHASE 2.10 (Grade 1) (1) 5yo+ £182,640 1m7f199y (3200 Metres) RACE 2

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 SLATE HOUSE (IRE) (10) (C, D) t 86 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 145F8-452 7 11-4 | 71.7kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Colin Tizzard Harry Cobden than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Winner of Grade 2 novice hurdle here last term. Stepped up on previous chase especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just efforts when runner-up over 19.8f at Newbury recently (first run following wind two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field surgery) but this demands vast improvement. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 US AND THEM (IRE) (38) (D) t 97 120-41222 6 11-4 | 71.7kg Pace Information: Strong Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland J. J. Slevin Jumped with aplomb when opening chase account at Navan in November. 1 ARTICULUM (IRE) (65) (D) t 92 Runner-up in graded company on each of his 3 subsequent starts and while 1P4247-21 9 11-4 | 71.7kg more is certainly needed, he’s not without each-way hope. Terence O’Brien, Ireland D. J. Mullins Useful hurdler and, having chased home the odds-on Getabird on debut in this 12 DECLARED RUNNERS sphere at Punchestown, he jumped well when landing a 3-runner Navan maiden next time. This is much tougher, though. BETTING FORECAST: 4-1 Lalor, 9-2 Glen Forsa, 13-2 Duc Des Genievres, 8-1 Hardline, 11-1 Paloma Blue, 12-1 2 CLONDAW CASTLE (IRE) (19) (D) 94 Kalashnikov, 14-1 Ornua, 16-1 Knocknanuss, 18-1 Clondaw Castle, 22-1 Us And Them, 1317-5211 7 11-4 | 71.7kg 28-1 Articulum, 66-1 bar Tom George Ciaran Gethings Ultimately well held on chase debut at Newbury in November but rapid progress TIMEFORM VIEW: since, winning small-field events from the front at Leicester and Huntingdon the No novice chaser this season has looked more assured than GLEN FORSA in the jumping last twice. Shouldn’t be underestimated. department. Indeed, he produced a power-packed display when making Kalashnikov 3 DUC DES GENIEVRES (FR) (24) 100 look decidedly ordinary at Sandown and will take plenty of stopping here. Duc des 32556-231 6 11-4 | 71.7kg Genievres is next on the list ahead of fellow Irish-raider Hardline. W. P. Mullins, Ireland P. Townend TIMEFORM 1-2-3: Smart novice hurdler last season and made it third time lucky over fences in fine style at Gowran (2½m). Drop back in trip unlikely to pose a problem and he has 1. GLEN FORSA (IRE) 2. DUC DES GENIEVRES (FR) 3. HARDLINE (IRE) to be taken very seriously. WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: 4 GLEN FORSA (IRE) (25) (D) 99 2018 Footpad 6-11-4 5-6f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 5 15/22111 7 11-4 | 71.7kg 2017 Altior 7-11-4 1-4f Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville 9 Mick Channon Jonathan Burke 2016 Douvan 6-11-4 1-4f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 7 Revelation since switched to fences, making it 3-3 in this sphere when brushing 2015 Un de Sceaux 7-11-4 4-6f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 11 Kalashnikov aside in a Sandown Grade 2 (15.5f) last month. His sure-footed 2014 Western Warhorse 6-11-4 33-1 David Pipe Tom Scudamore 9 jumping will be an asset round here.

5 HARDLINE (IRE) (37) (D) h 96 SMART STATS: 138-12113 7 11-4 | 71.7kg 3 W. P. Mullins’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (saddles: DUC DES Gordon Elliott, Ireland Davy Russell GENIEVRES) Smart novice who took the notable scalp of Getabird in a Limerick Grade 1 on 34% W. P. Mullins’s strike rate with chasers at up to 2m3f (saddles: DUC DES Boxing Day. Far from disgraced in the Flogas at Leopardstown next time and he’s GENIEVRES) one for the shortlist. 21% W. P. Mullins’s strike rate in spring (saddles: DUC DES GENIEVRES) 6 KALASHNIKOV (IRE) (25) (D, BF) 95 1212-1122 6 11-4 | 71.7kg Amy Murphy Jack Quinlan Smart hurdler (went close in Supreme Novices’ Hurdle here 12 months ago) and easy winner of first 2 chase starts. However, blown away by Glen Forsa at Sandown last time and bit to prove now.

7 KNOCKNANUSS (IRE) (38) (D) 98 1P4-F112F 9 11-4 | 71.7kg Gary Moore Jamie Moore Emphatic winner of first 2 completed starts over fences prior to chasing home a smart type at Plumpton in January. Departed early in Irish Grade 1 since and arguably lacks the scope of some of these.

8 LALOR (GER) (94) (CD, BF) 98 1/23201-13 7 11-4 | 71.7kg Kayley Woollacott Richard Johnson Grade 1 hurdles winner last term and fine start to chase career when landing the C&D trial for this race in November. Below par on soft ground at Sandown since and could do with the ground drying out.

9 ORNUA (IRE) (94) (D) 95 0-3112122 8 11-4 | 71.7kg Henry de Bromhead, Ireland Rachael Blackmore Has taken very well to fences, notching third success in this sphere in Roscommon Grade 3 in October. Fine second in the Henry VIII at Sandown last time and he’s a live each-way contender. 10 PALOMA BLUE (IRE) (75) (D) 96 321340-41 7 11-4 | 71.7kg Henry de Bromhead, Ireland Robbie Power Good fourth in Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at this meeting last year. Left chase debut well behind when scoring at Leopardstown (17f) in December but a more assured round of jumping will be needed here. CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 5 of 12 ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE (Grade 3) (1) 5yo+ £110,000 2.50 3m1f (5030 Metres) RACE 3

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 CRUCIAL ROLE (5lb/2kg ex) (15) 98 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 212P-3131 7 11-7 | 73.0kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Dan Skelton Harry Skelton than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Uttoxeter maiden winner in December. Disappointed in higher grade next time especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just (reportedly bled from nose) but firmly back on track with easy win in handicap two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field company back at Uttoxeter 15 days ago. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 CALIPTO (FR) (24) 97 51-U5U131 9 11-5 | 72.1kg Pace Information: Strong Venetia Williams Charlie Deutsch Can make mistakes but arrives at the top of his game, seeing off Black Corton 1 LAKE VIEW LAD (IRE) (76) 96 to win a 3m listed handicap at Ascot last month. Up 5 lb but is fairly unexposed 132123-11 9 11-12 | 75.3kg around 3m. N. W. Alexander Henry Brooke Raised his game again with wins in Rehearsal at Newcastle and Rowland Meyrick 13 SINGLEFARMPAYMENT (88) (CD) h 97 at Wetherby (both 3m) in December. Further 8 lb rise tough to overcome but is 2F5P52-42 9 11-3 | 71.2kg going right way. Tom George Noel Fehily Fifth in this last year and has reached frame in good handicaps at this venue on 2 SIZING CODELCO (IRE) (59) (D) 99 all 3 starts since, although he was outbattled again latest. Can figure but may P6PP48-20 10 11-11 | 74.8kg find a few too strong come the crunch. Colin Tizzard Tom O’Brien Back-to-back winner at Aintree and Punchestown Festivals in 2017. Showed he’s 14 UP FOR REVIEW (IRE) (47) 99 still capable of smart form on his day when second in Summer Plate in May but 2148-13 10 11-3 | 71.2kg well beaten on Warwick return in January. W. P. Mullins, Ireland P. Townend Pair of novice wins last spring and made an encouraging return to action when 3 O O SEVEN (IRE) (45) (C) b 95 third of 18 in Thyestes at Gowran in January, faring best of those who came from 3450P3-19 9 11-9 | 73.9kg off the pace. Much respected. Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville Successful reappearance (also first run since wind surgery) when wearing down 15 GIVE ME A COPPER (IRE) (38) t 96 Go Conquer at Doncaster in December. Unable to back that up in much deeper 161/U1-4 9 11-2 | 70.8kg race since. Blinkered first time. Paul Nicholls Harry Cobden Good strike rate in light career and shaped very well when returning from 15 4 MINELLA ROCCO (IRE) (18) (C) s+t 100 months off to finish an excellent fourth in big field at Sandown in February, U2/4P4F-59 9 11-9 | 73.9kg travelling powerfully before fitness told. Jonjo O’Neill Richie McLernon Runner-up in 2017 Gold Cup. Hasn’t reached same heights since but might 16 COO STAR SIVOLA (FR) (88) (CD) 99 have needed his 2 comeback efforts this season and could prove a different 2411P-837 7 11-2 | 70.8kg proposition now. Yard won this 3 times since 2009. Nick Williams Lizzie Kelly (3lb/1kg) Took this off 3 lb lower last year. Sandown third to Elegant Escape in November 5 ACTIVIAL (FR) (45) 96 was a decent effort and a mistake seemed to unsettle him when well held here 5/0-832126 9 11-8 | 73.5kg in December. Kept fresh for this since. Tom George Tom Scudamore Struck at second time of asking for this yard in Haydock graduation event in 17 VINTAGE CLOUDS (IRE) (75) (D) 99 November. Just as good when second at Ascot next time but only sixth off this 124233-1P 9 11-1 | 70.3kg mark in a course handicap since. Sue Smith Danny Cook Boasts some strong handicap form, including third in this 12 months ago. 6 MISTER WHITAKER (IRE) (52) (C) 98 Winning return at Haydock in November and very much type to shrug off rare 31211-144 7 11-8 | 73.5kg poor run in Welsh National. Had wind surgery since. Mick Channon Brian Hughes Winner of Close Brothers at last year’s Festival. Successful again on Carlisle return 18 GENERAL PRINCIPLE (IRE) (30) t 98 and not disgraced when fourth in good handicaps here and at Ascot since. 0461-0953 10 11-1 | 70.3kg Interesting up in trip. Gordon Elliott, Ireland J. W. Kennedy Last year’s Irish Grand National winner who was back to that sort of level when 7 BEWARE THE BEAR (IRE) (70) (C) b 97 third of 16 in 3½m Punchestown handicap last month. Possibly vulnerable back 74/1P4P-41 9 11-8 | 73.5kg at this shorter trip. Nicky Henderson Jeremiah McGrath Fourth in this last year and back to best in first-time blinkers (retained) when 19 WILLIE BOY (IRE) (45) s 96 winning course handicap on New Year’s Day, responding well to more positive 1/16F-2F14 8 11-1 | 70.3kg tactics. 5 lb rise demands more. Charlie Longsdon Jonathan Burke Good start for new yard, scoring with plenty in hand at Wetherby (19f) on Boxing 8 MAGIC OF LIGHT (IRE) (17) (BF) s 95 Day. Respectable fourth (Calipto third) in Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster since. 241-3112U 8 11-8 | 73.5kg Mrs J. Harrington, Ireland Robbie Power Listed mares’ chase at Newbury in December. Bagged a Grade 2 hurdle at Ascot 20 FLYING ANGEL (IRE) (52) v 98 the following month and just as good in defeat back chasing at Huntingdon 6 380-62875 8 10-13 | 69.4kg days later. Unseated at Fairyhouse since. Nigel Twiston-Davies Sam Twiston-Davies Grade 1 winner as a novice chaser but hasn’t scaled the same heights since. 9 ROYAL VACATION (IRE) (24) (C) b 96 Runner-up at Ascot in a first-time visor in November but the headgear hasn’t P50P-2614 9 11-8 | 73.5kg had the same effect since. Colin Tizzard Aidan Coleman Better than ever when landing a Taunton conditions event in January. Found 21 SHANTOU VILLAGE (IRE) (115) (C) s+t 98 3½m stretching his stamina when remote fourth in Grand National Trial at 0-843156U 9 10-13 | 69.4kg Haydock since and likely still in form. Neil Mulholland Robert Dunne Took advantage of career low-mark to win 11-runner handicap chase at 10 NOBLE ENDEAVOR (IRE) (94) s 98 Worcester in August. Unable to reproduce that here in the autumn but P54136/9 10 11-7 | 73.0kg freshened up since and returns with yard in form. Gordon Elliott, Ireland Davy Russell Third in this race off 4 lb higher 2 years ago, but very lightly raced since, finishing 22 OLDGRANGEWOOD (18) t 95 midfield in Becher at Aintree in December on his first outing for 20 months. Off 3/331P4-96 8 10-11 | 68.5kg again since. Dan Skelton Bridget Andrews Now 5 lb below the mark he was successful from at Newbury last winter but largely because he’s been some way below his best. Back up in trip. Too much to prove. CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 6 of 12 ULTIMA HANDICAP CHASE (Grade 3) (1) 5yo+ £110,000 2.50 3m1f (5030 Metres) RACE 3

23 CATAMARAN DU SEUIL (FR) (17) v 97 421-1F820 7 10-11 | 68.5kg Dr Richard Newland Charlie Hammond (5lb/2kg) Three chase wins at up to 3m, but has disappointed when pitched into stronger handicaps on 2 of his last 3 starts. Likely to find this competition a bit too hot. First-time visor replaces blinkers.

24 BIG RIVER (IRE) (86) t 96 1/1P312-F6 9 10-11 | 68.5kg Lucinda Russell Derek Fox Winner of a couple small-field chases at Kelso last season but fell around halfway in Rehearsal at Newcastle on reappearance and comfortably held back hurdling since.

24 DECLARED RUNNERS BETTING FORECAST: 7-1 Give Me A Copper, 10-1 Mister Whitaker, 12-1 Minella Rocco, 12-1 Coo Star Sivola, 14-1 Crucial Role, 16-1 Up For Review, 16-1 Beware The Bear, 18-1 Singlefarmpayment, 20-1 General Principle, 22-1 Noble Endeavor, 25-1 Vintage Clouds, 25-1 Calipto, 25-1 Magic of Light, 28-1 Lake View Lad, 33-1 Royal Vacation, 40-1 bar TIMEFORM VIEW: Jonjo O’Neill has a good record in this race and it’s perhaps worth chancing MINELLA ROCCO, who could well have needed both outings this season. Still only a 9-y-o he’s very well treated on his Gold Cup second in 2017 and, interestingly, he now has cheekpieces and a tongue tie combined for the first time since then. Up For Review, Mister Whitaker and Vintage Clouds head the many dangers. TIMEFORM 1-2-3: 1. MINELLA ROCCO (IRE) 2. UP FOR REVIEW (IRE) 3. MISTER WHITAKER (IRE) WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: 2018 Coo Star Sivola 6-10-13 5-1f Nick Williams Lizzie Kelly (3) 18 2017 Un Temps Pour Tout 8-11-12 9-1 David Pipe Tom Scudamore 23 2016 Un Temps Pour Tout 7-11-7 11-1 David Pipe Tom Scudamore 23 2015 The Druids Nephew 8-11-3 8-1 Neil Mulholland Barry Geraghty 24 2014 Holywell 7-11-6 10-1 Jonjo O’Neill Richie McLernon 23

SMART STATS: 3 Jonjo O’Neill’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (saddles: MINELLA ROCCO) £10.91 Sue Smith’s profit to a £1 level stake with only one runner on the card (chases) (saddles: VINTAGE CLOUDS) £39.64 Dr Richard Newland’s profit to a £1 level stake with only one runner on the card (chases) (saddles: CATAMARAN DU SEUIL) CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 7 of 12 UNIBET CHAMPION HURDLE CHALLENGE TROPHY (Grade 1) 3.30 (1) 4yo+ £450,000 2m87y (3300 Metres) RACE 4

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) BETTING FORECAST: Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 85-40 Apple’s Jade, 3-1 Buveur D’air, 7-2 Laurina, 20-1 Melon, 20-1 Sharjah, 20-1 last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Verdana Blue, 22-1 Espoir D’allen, 40-1 bar than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just TIMEFORM VIEW: two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field After easy wins on all 4 outings this term, including most impressively back at 2m in the races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go Irish Champion latest, APPLE’S JADE is taken to thwart Buveur d’Air as that one bids to for home too soon. become the first since Istabraq to complete a hat-trick in the race. Laurina, who burst on Pace Information: Even to the scene with her Dawn Run success last year, has yet to taste defeat for Willie Mullins and is another fascinating contender. 1 BRAIN POWER (IRE) (87) (CD) s 90 5/1UF2F-41 8 11-10 | 74.4kg TIMEFORM 1-2-3: Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville 1. APPLE’S JADE (FR) 2. BUVEUR D’AIR (FR) 3. LAURINA (FR) Dogged by jumping errors over fences but showed the engine is very much still there when making successful return to hurdling in Grade 2 International here in WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: December. This a whole lot tougher. 2018 Buveur d’Air 7-11-10 4-6f Nicky Henderson Barry Geraghty 11 2017 Buveur d’Air 6-11-10 5-1 Nicky Henderson Noel Fehily 11 2 BUVEUR D’AIR (FR) (38) (CD) 96 2016 Annie Power 8-11-3 5-2f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 12 1/1111-121 8 11-10 | 74.4kg 2015 Faugheen 7-11-10 4-5f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 8 Nicky Henderson Barry Geraghty 2014 Jezki 6-11-10 9-1 Mrs J. Harrington Barry Geraghty 9 Seeking a hat-trick of wins in this race. Suffered rare reversal when chinned by stablemate Verdana Blue at Kempton over Christmas but back on track with ready win at Sandown since. Bold bid assured. SMART STATS: 4 Nicky Henderson’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (amongst 3 3 ESPOIR D’ALLEN (FR) (44) (D) 93 runners saddles: BUVEUR D’AIR) 11114-111 5 11-10 | 74.4kg 4 W. P. Mullins’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (amongst 3 runners Gavin Patrick Cromwell, Ireland M. P. Walsh saddles: MELON) Made most of a good opportunity when taking hurdle record to 7 wins from just 8 starts in Naas Grade 3 in January. Buveur d’Air clearly owner’s main hope but 30% Nicky Henderson’s strike rate with hurdlers at up to 2m2f (saddles: BUVEUR this one is well worth his place. D’AIR, VERDANA BLUE and BRAIN POWER)

4 GLOBAL CITIZEN (IRE) (52) (D) 89 2116-2141 7 11-10 | 74.4kg Ben Pauling David Bass Front runner who took Grade 2 Champion Hurdle Trial at Haydock last time but had been put in his place by Verdana Blue and Buveur d’Air in Christmas Hurdle at Kempton prior to that.

5 MELON (38) (D) s 96 2/1352F-44 7 11-10 | 74.4kg W. P. Mullins, Ireland P. Townend Top-class hurdler at best (neck second to Buveur d’Air last year), but below par on both starts this term, finishing remote fourth to Apple’s Jade in Irish Champion latterly. Cheekpieces added. 6 SHARJAH (FR) (73) (D) 94 846-31311 6 11-10 | 74.4kg W. P. Mullins, Ireland Mr P. W. Mullins Little better than a useful novice last term but different proposition this time round, seeing off Faugheen in the Morgiana before showing that was no fluke with a defeat of Supasundae in the Ryanair. 7 SILVER STREAK (IRE) (52) (D, BF) 88 2U6-11222 6 11-10 | 74.4kg Evan Williams Adam Wedge Most consistent, including excellent runner-up efforts in Greatwood and International here before Christmas. Another good run behind Global Citizen at Haydock latest but not quite up to this level.

8 APPLE’S JADE (FR) (38) (C, D) t 100 1133-1111 7 11-3 | 71.2kg Gordon Elliott, Ireland J. W. Kennedy Tenth Grade 1 win of outstanding career when slamming Supasundae (Melon well back in fourth) in Irish Champion at Leopardstown. This front-runner will take plenty of pegging back if in similar form.

9 LAURINA (FR) (20) (CD) 95 F2/1111-11 6 11-3 | 71.2kg W. P. Mullins, Ireland R. Walsh Easy winner of Dawn Run at last year’s Festival and barely broke sweat when making it 6-6 for this yard in Punchestown listed event 3 weeks ago. This demands more but she’s capable of better. 10 VERDANA BLUE (IRE) (76) (D, BF) 93 1300-1141 7 11-3 | 71.2kg Nicky Henderson Davy Russell Strong traveller who improved again to edge out stable-companion Buveur d’Air in Christmas Hurdle at Kempton. Probably best to ignore a short-priced defeat on Flat since but easy ground a worry. 10 DECLARED RUNNERS CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 8 of 12 OLBG MARES’ HURDLE (David Nicholson) (Grade 1) (1) 4.10 4yo+ fillies and mares £125,400 2m3f200y (4010 RACE 5 Metres)

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 MIA’S STORM (IRE) (106) (D) s 93 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 1/111FF-11 9 11-5 | 72.1kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Alan King Wayne Hutchinson than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Progressive over timber and same story over fences until falling in brace of especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just graded races last term. Firmly back on track to end 2018 and drop in trip no issue two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field sporting first-time headgear. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 MOMELLA (IRE) (75) (CD, BF) t 92 11213-FP 7 11-5 | 72.1kg Pace Information: Even Harry Fry Noel Fehily Made up into a useful novice last term (third in Aintree Grade 1) and in the 1 ALLETRIX (IRE) (20) (D) h 88 process of running a big race when exiting 2 out in the Long Distance Hurdle at 21243-644 6 11-5 | 72.1kg Newbury. Pulled up sharply a month later. Mrs J. Harrington, Ireland Robbie Power Established as a useful mare and fared as well as could be expected when 13 ROKSANA (IRE) (38) 94 fourth in a listed event at Punchestown last month. Hard to see her finding the 4/31112-3 7 11-5 | 72.1kg necessary improvement to figure. Dan Skelton Harry Skelton Progressive mare who got the hat-trick up in EBF Mares’ Final at Newbury in 2 BENIE DES DIEUX (FR) (318) (CD) 100 March 2018. Excellent second in the Sefton and she’s sure to strip fitter with last 1/1111- 8 11-5 | 72.1kg month’s reappearance under her belt. W. P. Mullins, Ireland R. Walsh Unbeaten in 5 starts for Willie Mullins, taking advantage of an off-colour Apple’s 14 SLOWMOTION (FR) (20) (D) b 89 Jade a couple of times last season, including in this race. Absence no concern 8P36-46P3 7 11-5 | 72.1kg and she’s very much the one to beat. Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland Barry Geraghty Better known as a useful handicap chaser around 3m. Ahead of 3 of these when 3 CAP SOLEIL (FR) (362) (C) 90 third back over hurdles last month but she still looks up against it. 111/1212- 6 11-5 | 72.1kg Fergal O’Brien Paddy Brennan Triple-bumper winner in 2016/17 who was best of the rest behind Laurina in the 15 STORMY IRELAND (FR) (20) 92 Dawn Run Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle a year ago. Should stay this far but has been 1FU-13122 5 11-5 | 72.1kg absent since. W. P. Mullins, Ireland P. Townend Far too free to last out and ultimately fell in the 2018 Triumph Hurdle. Brace of 4 CHAMPAYNE LADY (IRE) (362) t 78 listed wins to her name this season but that form leaves her with plenty on 86/180213- 7 11-5 | 72.1kg against Benie des Dieux. Alan Fleming, Ireland Donagh Meyler Ridden to pick up the pieces when third of 14 in the Dawn Run Mares’ Novices’ 15 DECLARED RUNNERS at this meeting a year ago. Off since and hard to see her getting involved, even if improving for this trip. BETTING FORECAST: evens Benie Des Dieux, 9-1 Limini, 11-1 Lady Buttons, 12-1 Stormy Ireland, 14-1 5 ELIMAY (FR) (73) 86 Roksana, 25-1 Mia’s Storm, 28-1 Jester Jet, 28-1 Elimay, 33-1 Good Thyne Tara, 50-1 bar 4/13222-2 5 11-5 | 72.1kg W. P. Mullins, Ireland M. P. Walsh TIMEFORM VIEW: Placed twice at Grade 3 level for C. & Y. Lerner in France and matched that form BENIE DES DIEUX took advantage of a below-par Apple’s Jade twice last spring (formerly when runner-up on debut for Willie Mullins in December (first go at this far). in this race) and that form is well in advance of the opposition here. Her subsequent Likely has a bigger performance in her. absence is no concern given the yard she represents and she can provide Willie Mullins 6 GOOD THYNE TARA (20) (D) 92 with his tenth win in the race. Roksana shaped well on last month’s reappearance and 11613216 9 11-5 | 72.1kg is second choice in favour of Limini. W. P. Mullins, Ireland Rachael Blackmore TIMEFORM 1-2-3: Successful 4 times this season, latterly in Grade 3 company at Leopardstown in December. Rare off day, even allowing for fact she was up against it, at 1. BENIE DES DIEUX (FR) 2. ROKSANA (IRE) 3. LIMINI (IRE) Punchestown since. WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: 7 JESTER JET (24) (D) 92 2018 Benie des Dieux 7-11-5 9-2 W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 9 17-222221 9 11-5 | 72.1kg 2017 Apple’s Jade 5-11-5 7-2 Gordon Elliott B. J. Cooper 17 Tom Lacey Robert Dunne 2016 Vroum Vroum Mag 7-11-5 4-6f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 19 Tough and genuine mare who gained a deserved first success of the season in 2015 Glens Melody 7-11-5 6-1 W. P. Mullins P. Townend 15 listed company at Haydock last month. Stamina her forte and she may well plug 2014 Quevega 10-11-5 8-11f W. P. Mullins R. Walsh 16 on for a place. 8 LACKANEEN LEADER (IRE) (20) (D) 87 SMART STATS: 112P-47P5 7 11-5 | 72.1kg 9 W. P. Mullins’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (amongst 5 runners Gordon Elliott, Ireland Davy Russell saddles: BENIE DES DIEUX) Racked up a hat-trick this time last year. Didn’t take to fences over the winter but £80.73 Tom Lacey’s profit to a £1 level stake when having only one runner on the last month’s fifth in listed company back over hurdles was at least more like it. card (hurdles) (saddles: JESTER JET) 28% W. P. Mullins’s strike rate with hurdlers running between 2m2f and up to 2m6f (saddles: BENIE DES DIEUX, LIMINI, STORMY IRELAND, GOOD THYNE 9 LADY BUTTONS (45) (D) 94 4414-1111 9 11-5 | 72.1kg TARA and ELIMAY) Philip Kirby Thomas Dowson Really likeable mare who landed listed mares’ hurdle at Wetherby (2m) on return and made it 4-4 for the campaign in a Grade 2 at Doncaster in January. Stamina a query with this likely to be well run.

10 LIMINI (IRE) (47) (C, D) 95 213/334 8 11-5 | 72.1kg W. P. Mullins, Ireland D. J. Mullins Smart mare on the Flat and over hurdles, creating a big impression as a novice in 2015/16. Efforts this season suggest she’s looking at minor honours behind stablemate Benie des Dieux. CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 9 of 12 CLOSE BROTHERS NOVICES’ HANDICAP CHASE (Listed) (1) 4.50 5yo+ (Rated 0-145) £70,000 2½m44y (4060 Metres) RACE 6

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 SPRINGTOWN LAKE (IRE) (75) (D, BF) 99 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The F2310-124 7 11-5 | 72.1kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Philip Hobbs Richard Johnson than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Useful hurdler who made a winning start over fences at Sandown (20.1f) in especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just November. May not have been suited by step up to 3m at Kempton last time two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field and could be a player. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 ROARING BULL (IRE) (31) (D) b 96 6F-162141 6 11-4 | 71.7kg Pace Information: Even Gordon Elliott, Ireland J. W. Kennedy Taken well to fences, winning 3 of his 6 starts, and found improvement when 1 HIGHWAY ONE O ONE (IRE) (45) 96 scoring at Naas (20f) in decisive fashion last month. Handicapper had his say 12-121432 7 11-9 | 73.9kg since but can’t be ruled out. Chris Gordon Tom Cannon Dual winner over fences who impressed with his jumping when runner-up here 13 MOVEWITHTHETIMES (IRE) (115) 99 (20.6f) in January. Just 2 lb higher now and likely to give another good account. 12/423P-UF 8 11-4 | 71.7kg Paul Nicholls Barry Geraghty Smart hurdler but still without a victory in this discipline after 6 attempts. 2 RED INDIAN (49) (BF) 97 Running creditably when coming down at last in BetVictor here in November 33267-14U 7 11-9 | 73.9kg and could be a player with a clear round. Kelly Morgan Ross Chapman Made winning start over fences at Ayr in November and not disgraced in Grade 14 RIDERS ONTHE STORM (IRE) (30) 100 1 subsequently. Unseated rider latest but looks fairly treated on first crack at 21260-431 6 11-4 | 71.7kg handicapping in this sphere. Tom J. Taaffe, Ireland Brian Hughes Upped game significantly when taking 6-runner minor event at Punchestown 3 CUBOMANIA (IRE) (37) (CD) t 96 (16f) last month. Likely more to come now sent handicapping and yard has been 1314F225 6 11-9 | 73.9kg successful in this event before. Gordon Elliott, Ireland Davy Russell Been kept busy this season, winning 4 of 11 starts over fences (including over 15 HUNTSMAN SON (IRE) (5lb/2kg ex) (10) (D) t 96 C&D in October). Creditable fifth in Leopardstown handicap latest and should 1424-2621 9 11-4 | 71.7kg make his presence felt once more. Alex Hales Kielan Woods Dual-point winner who got off the mark over fences when landing 5-runner 4 A PLUS TARD (FR) (58) (BF) 97 novice event at Newbury (19.8f) 10 days ago. Faces much stiffer task now, 12231-212 5 11-7 | 73.0kg however, and 5 lb penalty won’t aid his cause. Henry de Bromhead, Ireland Rachael Blackmore Improved with each start for this yard, latest when second in Grade 3 chase at 16 SHADY OPERATOR (IRE) (44) 97 Punchestown (20f) in January. Likely targeted at this event since and looks a big 1/2122-314 6 11-3 | 71.2kg player on switch to handicapping. Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland M. P. Walsh Built on chase debut promise when scoring at Punchestown in December. 5 LOUGH DERG SPIRIT (IRE) (43) (D) s 96 Below that level in Naas Grade 3 since but remains with potential on switch to P/2660-151 7 11-6 | 72.6kg handicapping. Nicky Henderson Nico de Boinville Back on track, in first-time headgear, when comfortably taking 5-runner 17 GOOD MAN PAT (IRE) (17) (D) 97 handicap at Ludlow (20f) in January, but asked a much bigger question now. 2411P-313 6 11-3 | 71.2kg Alan King Wayne Hutchinson Opened account over fences in 3-runner handicap at Plumpton before creditable 6 BEN DUNDEE (IRE) (58) (D) t 96 third in Pendil Novices’ Chase at Kempton last month. Likely capable of better yet 000-31PF6 7 11-5 | 72.1kg but others more persuasive. Gordon Elliott, Ireland Keith Donoghue Posted useful form when taking Punchestown maiden in November, but has 18 SOLOMN GRUNDY (IRE) (30) 95 been let down by his jumping since, all but coming down after a bad mistake at 22291-245 9 11-3 | 71.2kg same venue latest. Switches to handicapping. Henry de Bromhead, Ireland P. Townend Creditable efforts all 3 outings for this yard, latest when fifth over marathon 7 TOWER BRIDGE (IRE) (24) s+t 98 trip at Punchestown last month. Has run well at this course previously but lacks 04153-532 6 11-5 | 72.1kg potential of some of his rivals here. Joseph Patrick O’Brien, Ireland J. J. Slevin Left previous efforts over fences behind when runner-up at Gowran (20f) 19 QUAMINO (GER) (38) t 96 last month. Further improvement anticipated on handicap debut and is an 2-2613U21 6 11-2 | 70.8kg interesting contender. Wears first-time cheekpieces. Paul Nolan, Ireland B. J. Cooper Resumed winning ways when narrowly taking 14-runner handicap at 8 MILITARIAN (26) 94 Leopardstown (17f) last month. Already proved himself over this longer trip and 2-3421141 9 11-5 | 72.1kg could well be in the mix. Andrew Martin Mr James Martin (7lb/3kg) Likeable sort who scored for third time this season when taking small-field 20 DELL ORO (FR) (25) (D) s 96 handicap at Leicester last month. 6 lb higher now, though, and will find life much 432-241P3 6 11-2 | 70.8kg tougher in this company. Gary Moore Joshua Moore Off the mark at third attempt over fences when taking Huntingdon handicap in 9 WALT (IRE) (17) v+t 95 January, but has lost his way in a couple of starts since and no surprise to see P-2065121 8 11-5 | 72.1kg headgear reached for. Neil Mulholland Sam Twiston-Davies Upped his game considerably since fitted with a visor, winning 2 of his last 3 20 DECLARED RUNNERS starts, latest a valuable handicap at Kempton (24f) 17 days ago. 7 lb higher now but likely to acquit himself well again. BETTING FORECAST: 8-1 Riders Onthe Storm, 9-1 A Plus Tard, 10-1 Tower Bridge, 14-1 Movewiththetimes, 10 THE RUSSIAN DOYEN (IRE) (55) 96 16-1 Highway One O One, 18-1 Springtown Lake, 18-1 Shady Operator, 18-1 Roaring 31516-151 6 11-5 | 72.1kg Bull, 18-1 Quamino, 18-1 Cubomania, 18-1 Walt, 20-1 Good Man Pat, 22-1 Lough Colin Tizzard Harry Cobden Derg Spirit, 22-1 Ben Dundee, 25-1 Red Indian, 25-1 The Russian Doyen, 25-1 Solomn Already improved on his hurdling form in 3 starts in this sphere, latest when Grundy, 28-1 Huntsman Son, 50-1 bar winning 4-runner handicap at Newbury (16.4f) in January. Much more on his plate here, but remains relatively low-mileage. CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 10 of 12 CLOSE BROTHERS NOVICES’ HANDICAP CHASE (Listed) (1) 4.50 5yo+ (Rated 0-145) £70,000 2½m44y (4060 Metres) RACE 6

TIMEFORM VIEW: TOWER BRIDGE ran a cracker in last year’s Albert Bartlett and posted much his best effort in this discipline when second to Duc des Genievres at Gowran last time. He gets the vote in a typically-open renewal of this contest. Fellow Irish raiders A Plus Tard and Riders Onthe Storm are feared most, whilst Springtown Lake may be best of the home contingent. TIMEFORM 1-2-3: 1. TOWER BRIDGE (IRE) 2. A PLUS TARD (FR) 3. RIDERS ONTHE STORM (IRE) WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: 2018 Mister Whitaker 6-11-2 13-2 Mick Channon Brian Hughes 19 2017 Tully East 7-11-8 8-1 Alan Fleming Denis O’Regan 20 2016 Ballyalton 9-11-10 12-1 Ian Williams Brian Hughes 20 2015 Irish Cavalier 6-11-7 11-1 Rebecca Curtis P. Townend 20 2014 Present View 6-11-7 8-1 Jamie Snowden Brendan Powell 19

SMART STATS: 37% Brian Hughes’s strike rate on chase favourites (rides: RIDERS ONTHE STORM) 21% Paul Nicholls’s strike rate with chasers running between 19f and up to 3m (saddles: MOVEWITHTHETIMES) 20% Nicky Henderson’s strike rate with chasers running between 19f and up to 3m (saddles: LOUGH DERG SPIRIT) CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 11 of 12 NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP AMATEUR RIDERS’ 5.30 NOVICES’ CHASE (Grade 2) (1) 5yo+ £125,000 3m7f147y RACE 7 (6370 Metres)

Going: Good to Soft (Soft in places) 11 LE BREUIL (FR) (52) 94 Left handed, undulating. Stiff fences that place a premium on sound jumping. The 015-12324 7 11-6 | 72.6kg last half mile is uphill, although the lead changes hands on the run-in less frequently Ben Pauling Mr J. J. Codd than expected. Horses who race prominently often fare well on the chase course, Sound jumper who has remained in form in some good novice events since especially in shorter-distance races. On the New Course, the hurdles track has just winning a match on his chase debut/return. Another potential improver now two flights in the last six furlongs, resulting in more emphasis on stamina; large-field upped to a marathon trip with top amateur booked. races over two miles often go to hold-up horses, as there can be a tendency to go for home too soon. 12 MULCAHYS HILL (IRE) (38) s 91 1124P-624 7 11-6 | 72.6kg Pace Information: Strong Warren Greatrex Mr N. McParlan Useful hurdler who matched that form over fences when chasing home 1 BALLYWARD (IRE) (44) 100 Jerrysback at Bangor in first-time cheekpieces. Stiff task in the Scilly Isles after a 1/4144-21 7 11-6 | 72.6kg wind op next time and remains with potential. W. P. Mullins, Ireland Mr P. W. Mullins Fourth in last year’s Albert Bartlett and surpassed that form over fences with 13 OK CORRAL (IRE) (59) 98 victory in 3m Naas Grade 3 in January, left clear last by Discorama’s fall. 4m sure 12125-11 9 11-6 | 72.6kg to suit and will progress further. Nicky Henderson Mr Derek O’Connor Runner-up in last year’s Albert Bartlett and going to be even better over fences, 2 BEYOND THE LAW (IRE) (16) h+t 87 impressing when making it 2 from 2 in listed 3m Warwick event under top 4P9-F5526 7 11-6 | 72.6kg amateur in January. 4m sure to suit. M. F. Morris, Ireland Mr J. C. Barry Useful maiden chaser who ran respectably in novice handicap at Naas last time. 14 PLANTAGENET (15) s 79 Plenty of improvement needed to figure in this in a first-time hood and stamina 4-P322121 7 11-6 | 72.6kg is a big query. Seamus Mullins Mr Matthew Fielding Took another step forward with headgear re-fitted when winning 25.7f Plumpton 3 CHEF DES OBEAUX (FR) (17) s 90 amateurs’ handicap chase under this rider last month. Plenty more needed to 111PP-3U1 7 11-6 | 72.6kg get competitive in this. Nicky Henderson Mr M. J. O’Hare Improved for first-time cheekpieces when winning 3¼m novice at Chepstow 15 SKIPTHECUDDLES (IRE) (23) s 91 (by 18 lengths from Jammin Masters) last time. Still room for improvement in his 5501F-451 8 11-6 | 72.6kg jumping, but should stay this longer trip. Graeme McPherson Miss Lilly Pinchin Useful staying hurdler who beat a weak finisher in a match over fences at Market 4 CLONDAW CIAN (IRE) (102) (C) s 73 Rasen (3m) last month. This is a whole different test but he could have more in 2P0PP-300 9 11-6 | 72.6kg the locker. Sophie Leech Mr Damien Skehan One-time useful hurdler/chaser with only one real effort of note for some time 16 WARTHOG (FR) (24) t 87 for Suzy Smith and facing a stiff task for new yard after 3 months off. 3P327-1P3 7 11-6 | 72.6kg David Pipe Mr Richard Deegan Led from pillar to post on chase debut at Sandown on return (only 6 finished out 5 DISCORAMA (FR) (44) 99 of 14) and back on track when third in another race that fell apart at Haydock last 23725-15F 6 11-6 | 72.6kg time. Looks up against it here. Paul Nolan, Ireland Mr Barry O’Neill Runner-up in last year’s Martin Pipe and has quickly made up into a smart chaser, 17 WHISPERINTHEBREEZE (37) s 92 winning 19f Naas event on return. Keeping on when falling last in Grade 3 won 9-2425221 6 11-6 | 72.6kg by Ballyward last time. 4m will be fine. Mrs J. Harrington, Ireland Mr Finian Maguire Continued his progression when winning a hot Leopardstown handicap chase 6 GUN DIGGER (IRE) (58) s+t 93 (21f) last month, jumping soundly up front and keeping on well. This has been 12P0-3214 7 11-6 | 72.6kg the target and he’s definitely a player. Gordon Elliott, Ireland Ms L. O’Neill Left clear in 21f Leopardstown maiden chase over Christmas but not so good 18 ATLANTA ABLAZE (24) 96 at Punchestown next time. Tongue tie now added to usual cheekpieces upped 531131U1 8 10-13 | 69.4kg markedly in trip. Henry Daly Mr William Biddick Has had a fine season, winning last 2 completed starts in listed mares’ chases by 7 IMPULSIVE STAR (IRE) (59) s 92 wide margins, again jumping well at Wincanton (25f) last time. Considered under 10/F234-21 9 11-6 | 72.6kg rider with plenty of form in the race. Neil Mulholland Mr Sam Waley-Cohen Picked a good time to register first win over fences in the Classic Chase at 18 DECLARED RUNNERS Warwick 2 months ago. Fourth in this last year but a fair bit to find with Ok Corral (second to him at Plumpton on return). BETTING FORECAST: 10-3 Ok Corral, 4-1 Ballyward, 7-1 Discorama, 14-1 Le Breuil, 14-1 Whisperinthebreeze, 8 JERRYSBACK (IRE) (52) (BF) 96 16-1 Atlanta Ablaze, 16-1 Gun Digger, 16-1 Impulsive Star, 25-1 Jerrysback, 33-1 Chef 11/5122 7 11-6 | 72.6kg Des Obeaux, 40-1 bar Philip Hobbs Mr D. G. Lavery Has made a bright start over fences, jumping well when winning at Bangor then TIMEFORM VIEW: second in a couple of small-field Grade 2s. Should have more to offer over long distances and not one to dismiss. It looks significant that BALLYWARD is the sole Willie Mullins runner given the fine record of son Patrick and the yard in the race. He probably would have won at Naas 9 JOHANOS (FR) (83) 85 even without Discorama’s fall and he should relish this test. OK Corral jumped like a 25311/4 8 11-6 | 72.6kg seasoned pro when winning on just his second start over fences at Warwick and is a big Nigel Hawke Mr Kieren Buckley player. Whisperinthebreeze completes the shortlist. Progressive and a dual winner over hurdles in 2017. Encouraging return when fourth in 23.4f Newbury novice handicap on chase bow in December and TIMEFORM 1-2-3: entitled to improve for all this is a lot tougher. 1. BALLYWARD (IRE) 2. OK CORRAL (IRE) 3. WHISPERINTHEBREEZE

10 JUST YOUR TYPE (IRE) (17) s 92 WINNERS IN PREVIOUS YEARS: 241-45F6 7 11-6 | 72.6kg 2018 Rathvinden 10-11-6 9-2 W. P. Mullins Mr P. W. Mullins 16 Charlie Longsdon Mr Robert James 2017 Tiger Roll 7-11-6 16-1 Gordon Elliott Ms L. O’Neill 18 Yet to add to his point and hurdles wins in 4 runs over fences but continues to 2016 Minella Rocco 6-11-6 8-1 Jonjo O’Neill Mr Derek O’Connor 20 look an out-and-out stayer, things not going his way in the Eider last month. 2015 Cause of Causes 7-11-6 8-1 Gordon Elliott Mr J. J. Codd 17 Each-way claims. 2014 Midnight Prayer 9-11-6 8-1 Alan King Mr Joshua Newman 15 CHELTENHAM Tuesday 12th March page 12 of 12 NATIONAL HUNT CHALLENGE CUP AMATEUR RIDERS’ 5.30 NOVICES’ CHASE (Grade 2) (1) 5yo+ £125,000 3m7f147y RACE 7 (6370 Metres)

SMART STATS: 2 W. P. Mullins’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (saddles: BALLYWARD) 3 Gordon Elliott’s number of winners in past 10 runnings. (saddles: GUN DIGGER) £12.94 David Pipe’s profit to a £1 level stake with only one runner on the card (chases) (saddles: WARTHOG)