Williams sets sights on Arkle bid

Nick Williams believes his Cornas could be a lively outsider for the Irish Independent Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham next month.

The lightly-raced seven-year-old was beaten only a quarter of a length in a recent Grade Two event at Sandown on only his second start over fences.

But that performance convinced Williams to aim at the two-mile novice championship, won in such devastating fashion 12 months ago by Tidal Bay.

“He’s fine. He’s done very well in his two races so I’m very happy with him,” said Williams.

“I was disappointed we didn’t win the race, obviously, the mistake at the second-last cost him.

“I’m hoping he keeps progressing, I’d like to go for the Arkle with him.

“It was a Grade Two the other day and he wasn’t outclassed so he wouldn’t be out of place.”

Cornas is a general 33-1 chance for the Arkle currently.