VC Bet slashed Air Force One into 8-1 for the Royal & SunAlliance Chase after the classy hurdler flew home in the Crown Racing Freephone 08000 724 624 Novices’ Chase at Fontwell.

WISDOM, conventional or otherwise, is in plentiful supply at the Cheltenham Festival and conjecture is very much a common currency.

THIERRY DOUMEN created a mild surprise when landing the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown yesterday with Foreman. It was his first ever runner in Ireland, his first winner in Ireland as a trainer and a first success in a Grade One for the 24-year-old.