Lewis opts for Lexus with Mate
The triple Cheltenham Gold Cup winner landed the Grade One contest in impressive fashion 12 months ago and will head back to the Dublin track on December 28 rather than Kempton for the King George VI Chase on St Stephen's Day.
Speaking at the launch of the Festival, Lewis, accompanied by his wife Valerie, said: “He will be running at Leopardstown, even if I have to carry him over on my back.
“I will never forget the reception we had when we won last year and only an absolute monsoon would stop us from wanting to run.”
Lewis, who drew a roar from the crowd when revealing he owns a Lexus, added: “Henrietta (Knight) tells me he is in great form.”
Plenty of others stars are set to be in action over the four days with Drinmore Chase winner Watson Lake due to clash with the high-class Like-A-Butterfly in the Durkan New Homes Novice Chase on St Stephen's Day.
The latter, winner of the 2002 Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, jumped to the front of many ante-post lists for the Arkle Trophy when making her chasing debut last month.
Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus said: “She came out of the race well and she seems to be in good form. The plan is to go to Leopardstown with her.”
Brilliant Tinge Creek winner Moscow Flyer could bid for a repeat win in the Paddy Power Dial a Bet Chase on the 27th, with the Nick Gifford-trained Joly Bay a possible runner in the 170,000 Paddy Power Chase on the same day.
The well-regarded Mark The Man looks set to reappear in Ascon/Rohcon Novice Chase on Lexus day. “Noel (Meade) is happy with him again and is looking forward to running at Leopardstown,” said Berry, again representing McManus.
The final day, the 29th, could see reigning champion hurdler Hardy Eustace take his chance in the Bewleys Hotels Festival Hurdle.
