Mullins octet boss Bumper
They have pocketed no less than 13 of the 16 runnings, with County Carlow trainer Willie Mullins bagging the race an incredible six times.
Mullins accounts for eight of the 24 horses declared this time.
“There’s not much point talking about each one individually because I’ve said before that I think all of them deserve to be here in their own right,” said the trainer.
“They are all as good as, if not better, than each of my previous winners of this race and I find it really hard to split them.
“Patrick (Mullins) is on Sicilian Secret, but he is another one of mine who didn’t really have a straightforward journey over here.
“Ruby (Walsh) is on Quel Esprit, David Casey is on Gagewell Flyer and Paul Townend is on Meath All Star.
“That might give people some idea, but all of them have a chance.
“From the minute the starter calls them in, never mind the start of the race, the guys are trying to get a position.
“You’ve got a get a position and then hold it.
“It’s going to be a tough race, there’s no jumps to sort them up so from start to finish they’ll be on top of one another and you need a lot of luck in running.”
The Philip Fenton-trained Dunguib has been a leading fancy since landing convincing victories at Punchestown and Navan in the first half of the season.
“He’s been out on the track this morning and he’s in good order,” said the County Tipperary handler.
“We’ve had a trouble-free run and he’s in great form. We’re looking forward to it without a doubt
“The plan was to come directly here rather than give him another bumper. He’s nice and fresh and in good form.”
Young amateur Brian O’Connell has ridden Dunguib in each of his three starts and keeps the mount.
“He rides him most days at home, he knows him well,” Fenton added.
“Fingers crossed we are hoping for a good run.”
Shinrock Paddy will be ridden by regular partner amateur Barry Connell, who is taking on the top professionals.
“He’s fresh and looks exceptionally well. We’re hopeful he’ll give Barry a good spin,” said trainer Paul Nolan.
“He’s done nothing wrong but it’s a big step up.”
