CHAMPION trainer Paul Nicholls is full of confidence ahead of Noland’s assault on the Irish Independent Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham this afternoon.

A high-class field of seven take their chance in the Dr PJ Moriarty Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Sunday.

Sizing Europe soared to the head of the betting for the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle as he left dual winner of the blue riband Hardy Eustace trailing in his wake at Leopardstown.

LIAM BURKE, one of the gentlemen of Irish racing, enjoyed his first ever Grade 1 success when Thyne Again landed the Baileys’ Arkle Cup at Leopardstown yesterday, writes Pat Keane.

PADDY POWER and Cashmans have both promoted Sizing Europe to favouritism for Sunday’s AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown, after yesterday’s forfeit and supplementary stage.

Check out today’s tips for races from selected courses.

Merdeka faces the acid test as he steps up to Grade Two company for the first time in Sunday’s Woodlands Park 100 Slaney Novice Hurdle at Naas.