Dual winner Flooring Porter, Grand National hero Noble Yeats, and previous Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle victors Paisley Park and Sire Du Berlais are among the notable contenders set to compete in this year’s prestigious race.
Fergal O’Brien’s Long Walk winner Crambo, the Gordon Elliott-trained Teahupoo, and the intriguing duo of Asterion Forlonge and Champ are also confirmed entrants, promising an enthralling renewal of the three-mile challenge. A total of 13 contenders have been declared, with Willie Mullins’ Sir Gerhard and strong competitors Dashel Drasher and Home By The Lee adding further depth to the field. Janadil and Buddy One complete the lineup.
In the Ryanair Chase, last year’s victor Envoi Allen leads a field of 11 contenders assembled by Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore. The impressive 10-year-old owned by Cheveley Park Stud, although absent from competition since November, is known to shine at the Festival. Paul Nicholls’ Stage Star, aiming for a comeback following a disappointing performance on New Year’s Day, boasts a previous Paddy Power Chase victory under challenging conditions. Nicholls’ Hitman will also compete alongside stablemate Stage Star.
Dan Skelton’s Protektorat is set to shorten his distance after two consecutive Gold Cup appearances, while Elliott fields Conflated and Fil Dor, and Mullins is represented by Capodanno. Joseph O’Brien’s Banbridge is the sole contender unlikely to benefit from the current rainy conditions, having withdrawn from last year’s Festival due to soft ground. The field also includes Ahoy Senor, Fugitif, and the added entrant Ga Law.
The Turners Novices’ Chase, the third Grade One event of the day, will feature an impressive lineup of 11 contenders. Noteworthy participants include Ginny’s Destiny, establishing a reputation as a proficient course specialist, as well as Grey Dawning, Iroko, and Gary Moore’s Le Patron. Facile Vega, seeking redemption under Mullins’ guidance, will join Sharjah in the pursuit of victory.
The Ryanair Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle will see Elliott’s Brighterdaysahead, backed by stable confidence, competing against promising contenders Jade De Grugy and Dysart Enos. The Pertemps Network Final boasts a full field of 24 entrants, with Farouk D’Alene leading the lineup as the top weight. The Trustatrader Plate features 21 contenders, with Crebilly from Jonjo O’Neill's stable attracting significant attention. Angels Dawn will strive for consecutive victories in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup Amateur Jockeys’ Handicap Chase.