COOLDINE, Ireland’s principal hope for next year’s Cheltenham Gold Cup, can continue his relentless climb up the ladder in the boylesports.com Champion Novice Chase at the opening stage of the Punchestown Festival this evening.

Flintoff is likely to go in search of more National glory following his fine second place in the Midlands version at Uttoxeter.

Ferdy Murphy is to launch an all-out attack on the Powers Whisky Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on April 9.

Cyfor Malta could be the surprise package in the Scottish National on April 20, a race in which champion trainer Martin Pipe has 12 possibles.