Fingal leads Neptune contenders

Fingal Bay is among a massive 118 entries for the Neptune Investment Management Novices’ Hurdle on the second day of the Cheltenham Festival, March 14.

Philip Hobbs’ six-year-old is unbeaten in five starts, most recently in Grade One company at Newbury in the Challow Hurdle.

Hobbs has stated his intention to head straight to the Festival with his charge.

Willie Mullins has 17 to choose from with Andrea and Graham Wylie’s Boston Bob looking the pick at this stage.

Noel Meade’s Monksland is prominent in the ante-post lists after his win in the Slaney Hurdle and he is another expected to head straight to Prestbury Park.

Irish trainers have won four of the last six renewals.

Nicky Henderson has plenty to chose from with Simonsig, Molotof, Captain Conan and Broadbackbob all entered, while Alan King‘s Batonnier and Secret Edge, first and third at Cheltenham last weekend, could go back.

Paul Nicholls has entered Prospect Wells plus Taunton scorers Black Thunder and Salubrious, while Lucy Wadham could saddle impressive Ludlow winner All Annalena, who was also smart on the Flat.

John Ferguson has entered three runners, including undefeated Grade Two winner Cotton Mill.