Dreaper aiming for Gold

JIM Dreaper is keeping his fingers crossed Notre Pere can establish himself as a realistic Gold Cup contender this season as he prepares his stable star for a return to action.

The eight-year-old enjoyed a fantastic campaign last season, winning the Welsh National and the Guinness Gold Cup at the Punchestown Festival.

The JNwine.com Champion Chase and a potential clash with Kauto Star is being considered for his first start of the coming campaign and Dreaper has been delighted with his charge since he returned to training.