Sicilian cut for Bumper bid after Leopardstown gallop

WILLIE Mullins’ Sicilian Secret came in for plenty of support following a stylish piece of work after racing at Leopardstown yesterday and is now 4-1 favourite with William Hill and Cashmans for the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.

A whole host of equine stars headed to the south Dublin track to complete their final preparations ahead of the Cheltenham Festival, and it was Mullins who dominated proceedings with 18 individuals stretching their legs.

The champion trainer worked eight bumper horses in total with the Patrick Mullins-ridden Sicilian Secret – a recent winner at the circuit – getting the better of Ruby Walsh aboard the ridden-along Quel Esprit.