Not too many trainers can be chasing Cheltenham festival glory 41 years after enjoying their initial success at the meeting.

Willie Mullins’ winning machine may have an enviable record but he is still pigeon-holed as the Robbie Keane of racing.

Harchibald staked his claim for championship honours with a smooth success under a vintage Paul Carberry ride in the Pertemps ‘Fighting Fifth’ Hurdle at Newcastle today.