I KNOW the Paddy Power at Cheltenham today is the major contest of the weekend, but let’s start with the horse I consider my best ride over the two days, Hinterland in the first, a three-year-old hurdle.

AS I’m sure you are aware, I lost my appeal in London on Thursday morning against a five-day whip ban incurred at Aintree.

I SUPPOSE people were probably a little surprised I returned to action in Britain yesterday, taking one ride at Wetherby.

I HEAD to Aintree this afternoon for four rides, but three of them pale into insignificance, with all due respects to the horses involved, compared to teaming up with Master Minded in the Grade 2 Old Roan Chase.

WHEN I walked out of Cork University Hospital exactly two weeks ago there was only one thing on my mind, the Galway Plate and Blazing Tempo.

I THINK it’s fair to say I’m more hopeful than confident facing into the final day of Punchestown this afternoon.

I have to say that today is my strongest book of rides for the week and it will be more than disappointing should I walk out of Punchestown tonight without a winner.

FIRST things first and that disappointing display by Kauto Star at Punchestown yesterday.

I WILL be most disappointed should Kauto Star fail to deliver in the Guinness Gold Cup at Punchestown this evening.

A year ago I was injured, working for RTE and watching Willie Mullins and Paul Townend combine to land winner after winner at Punchestown.