I am very hopeful that Quel Esprit can deliver in the Gold Cup at Punchestown today.

My first day at Punchestown doesn’t promise a whole lot and things can only get better as the week progresses.

A big-race winner would be nice, leading into Punchestown, and hopefully it may come with Harry The Viking in the Scottish National at Ayr this afternoon.

Just like 39 of my colleagues, I am very much looking forward to the Grand National at Aintree today.

Big Buck’s put more than a smile on my face with a great performance in the World Hurdle yesterday.

I will arrive at Cheltenham today confident there’s a strong possibility of getting among the winners, especially with Hurricane Fly in the Champion Hurdle and Quevega in the Mares’ Hurdle.

I have to say I’m rather philosophical regarding Kauto Star’s likely participation in the Gold Cup.

THE feature at Sandown this afternoon is the Tolworth Hurdle and I ride Prospect Wells in what is a tricky little contest, even if there are only five runners.

IT is very much a case of role reversal for me this weekend. Normally, I'm in England today and back in Ireland tomorrow, but it is the opposite this time round.

ON Monday morning, nice and early, I’ll head to Dublin airport for a 7.45am flight to Heathrow.