Mullins: Sir Des at home in Cheltenham

Trainer Willie Mullins believes Sir Des Champs’ love of Cheltenham will stand him in good stead when he runs in the Betfred Gold Cup next month.

Sir Des Champs has a 100% record at the Prestbury Park track with victories at the last two Festivals in the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys’ Handicap Hurdle in 2011 and the Jewson Novices’ Chase last season.

The Gigginstown House Stud-owned gelding enhanced his claims for Gold Cup glory when getting the better of Flemenstar in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown earlier this month.