Altior remains in the running to defend his crown in the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham on Wednesday.

Aside from Footpad’s crystal-clear claims in the Ryanair Novice Chase, today’s card looks quite difficult for punters.

You’d imagine the next time Jessica Harrington is looking for a jockey that Davy Russell will figure towards the top of her list.

I want to start by describing what Punchestown achieved on Wednesday as quite brilliant.

This afternoon's meeting at Punchestown goes ahead following an 8am inspection, although two chases have been called off.

CAPTAIN CHRIS, last season’s top two-mile novice chaser, is set to begin the new campaign in the Betfred Haldon Gold Cup at Exeter on Tuesday.

CAPTAIN CEE BEE, is set to return to Punchestown for his next start in the John Durkan Memorial Chase.

CAPTAIN CEE BEE could start the winter campaign with a run in the Poplar Square Chase at Naas on Saturday week.

EDWARD HARTY is considering a return to hurdles for his stable star Captain Cee Bee at the Punchestown Festival.

Edward Harty is considering a return to hurdles for his stable star Captain Cee Bee at the Punchestown Festival.

Sizing Europe is likely to bid to follow up his Arkle win in the Ryanair Novice Chase at the Punchestown Festival.