Punters doubt a winning start for Willie as Rachael Blackmore mount backed in opposition for DRF Grade 1.

The mare proved her aptitude for this test when landing a 2m4f Grade 3 mares’ hurdle in December and will receive 7lb from her five rivals. She won the race in 2009 and 2010 with Roberto Goldback and Coole River. Harrington said: “She’s in good form and stays well so the trip will hopefully suit, while this race fits into her schedule nicely.

Highwind runs in the Galopin Des Champs silks of Audrey Turley and made a deep impression on his hurdling debut at Punchestown, where he pleased Willie Mullins. The trainer said: “If he keeps it together, he could improve to be in the firing line. Like Jetara, she was last seen winning over shorter at the track in December and remains unexposed after ten starts.

A point-to-point winner at Monksgrange in 2021, this will be her first try at three miles under rules and it’s likely to suit on pedigree as she is related to the Ultima winner Beware The Bear. The going at Leopardstown is soft on the hurdle course and yielding to soft, yielding in places on the chase course. Racing Post have got the best offers, all in one place.