I would really love to win the race, not just for me, but for Willie Mullins, writes Ruby Walsh

Paul Nicholls believes Hennessy Gold Cup favourite Saphir Du Rheu can defy the burden of top weight at Newbury today.

After a thrilling opening day at the Cheltenham Festival, today offers another feast of racing to look forward to.

Paul’s horses are in good form, with maiden hurdle winners at Exeter, Fontwell and Worcester during the week.

Alan King’s exciting youngster Smad Place could run in the rearranged Coral Future Champions Finale Juvenile Hurdle at Chepstow on Saturday.c