Trainer - Thomas Gibney
Jockey - David Mullins
Three-and-a-half miles seemed way too much for this 8yo just last week, when being pulled up in a Grand National trial at Punchestown.
Prior to that he had been racing over a mile less - finishing a close second at Fairyhouse in a useful Novice Chase, so somewhere in the middle just looks just about right.
Smaller field, so will likely be involved.
Trainer - Ted Walsh
Jockey - Mark Walsh
Still improving but still yet to win over fences in eight attempts, although he is advancing and getting closer to the front.
Last seen finishing fifth at Leopardstown in the Paddy Power Chase - he was sent off the favourite that day proving how high he is regarded.
Neck second at Fairyhouse in the same month, so this could be his chance here.
Trainer - Gordon Elliott
Jockey - Davy Russell
The Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys Handicap Hurdle winner of last season has struggled to maintain real consistency over the larger obstacles, since winning on debut at Galway.
Never nearer to stable companion Delta Work in the Neville Hotels Novice Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas before being pulled up on his latest start at Naas.
Much to prove here.
Trainer - Gordon Elliott
Jockey - Jack Kennedy
Elliott may be better suited with Champagne Classic, who was a good third to Ballyward in a Grade Three at Naas latest.
That however was his return to the track after a lengthy layoff, before which he won a Grade One at the 2017 Punchestown Festival, and also the Martin Pipe at that season's Festival.
Much more to give here, looks exciting.
Trainer - Henry De Bromhead
Jockey - Rachael Blackmore
Useful hurdler before getting tailed off in the Albert Bartlett last season has started life brightly over fences this campaign.
Just two efforts, one win here at Navan before being next best to Ballyward in that Grade Three previously referred to over Christmas.
Will do well to consolidate the form with Champagne Classic, but nevertheless and obvious contender.
Trainer - Jessica Harrington
Jockey - Robbie Power
The youngest horse in the race has some ground to make-up following his most recent start at Naas.
Despite winning a Beginners Chase at Thurles, has definite ground to make up on some of his rivals here.
Classy field, and could be the one to put a line through.
