Paul Townend chooses title-holder Min over favourite Allaho for Ryanair Chase

Willie Mullins also runs Melon, who has finished second at the Festival four years in succession

Paul Townend onboard Min at Cheltenham Racecourse on Tuesday morning. Picture: INPHO/Francesca Altoft

Paul Townend has sided with last year’s winner Min over Allaho in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham – for which there are 14 declarations.

Allaho, who will be ridden by Rachael Blackmore on Thursday, has been ante-post favourite since winning a Grade Two at Thurles last time out – but Townend will partner his tried-and-trusted Willie Mullins-trained stablemate.