Ultima Handicap Chase

HAPPYGOLUCKY is the class act in this field and it’s no surprise to see Kim Bailey’s seven-year-old being strongly supported for the race. He has two victories and a second over fences to his name, with his latest victory coming at Cheltenham in December. He ran well at the Festival last year in the Martin Pipe, finishing fourth after being hampered at the last. A mark of 147 looks very kind judged on his form and he can take advantage of a weak looking Ultima.

Ryanair Chase

FAKIR D’OUDAIRIES was second behind Chacun Pour Soi in the Dublin Chase and that run puts him right in the mix here with question marks around a few of the others at the top of the market. 2m4f should see him to best effect too, a distance he’s yet to run at this season. The only time he’s run over this trip he’s won. Joseph O’Brien’s runner would have maybe won the Arkle had he not hit the second last fence. He has ran well at every visit to Cheltenham and should give another bold account in the Ryanair. 

Albert Bartlett Novices' Hurdle

FAKIERA was fourth behind Galliard Du Mensil at the Dublin Racing Festival, keeping on in eye-catching fashion. The way he finished off that race suggests the step up in trip to three miles for the Albert Bartlett should bring out further improvement for this exciting horse. He’s also got plenty of experience this season which should stand him in good stead here. He’s sure to get the trip and he could relish the finish up the hill whereas others may struggle.