Willie Mullins has been second in the Cheltenham Gold Cup six times, writes Brendan O’Brien

Bookmakers are likely to be running for cover if the mighty Hurricane Fly can strike a blow for punters and successfully defend his crown in the Stan James Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham today.

With the main Cheltenham trials consigned to the history books, racing takes breath before embarking on the roller-coaster ride that is the Festival build-up.