Blazing Bailey stays in hunt for Ladbrokes.com Hurdle

Blazing Bailey features among the 17 horses still in the Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle at Punchestown on Thursday.

Alan King’s Aintree winner could be joined by compatriots Chief Dan George, Faasel and Jonjo O’Neill’s Refinement.

Spearheading a strong Irish entry is Cheltenham third Kazal, while Willie Mullins has five to choose from including the progressive Cooldine, winner of his last five races.

Ebaziyan, Homer Wells, Uncle Junior and Quevega complete his list of potential representatives, with Noel Meade’s Aitmatov and the Mouse Morris-trained Venalmar two other fascinating possibles.

Catch Me, Earth Magic, Footy Facts, Kerryhead Windfarm and Sonnyanjoe complete the list.

Also boasting Grade One status on Thursday is the two-mile Cathal Ryan Memorial Swordlestown Cup.

The race could see the likes of Big Zeb, Conna Castle, Perce Rock, Sky’s The Limit, Thyne Again and J’y Vole clash, although many of the 15 engaged have alternative options.