Banbridge Stays on Track for Ryanair Chase Bid

The Ryanair Chase remains the primary target for top contender Banbridge in the upcoming Cheltenham Festival, despite concerns over the ground conditions.

Last year, Joseph O’Brien's horse had to sit out the Turners Novices' Chase due to the rain-softened track, and with Prestbury Park currently rated as soft with heavy patches, the situation is being closely monitored.

Banbridge kicked off his season impressively by defeating subsequent Ascot Chase victor Pic D’Orhy in the Grade Two Silviniaco Conti Chase at Kempton. The horse has been carefully prepared for the Festival, with a final decision on his participation likely to be made on the race day itself.

O’Brien expressed,

“There's still a considerable amount of time before the event, with many races yet to unfold and numerous weather updates to come. As always, we eagerly anticipate the race, aiming for a successful run with Banbridge, who has been diligently prepared for Cheltenham."

Banbridge is expected to lead a modest but elite group of "six or seven" runners representing O’Brien across the prestigious four-day event at Cheltenham. O’Brien mentioned,

“We are hopeful of having runners each day, with some preferring softer ground and others performing better on firmer footing. Presently, conditions seem to favour horses that excel in slightly softer terrains, but we will closely monitor any changes over the upcoming week."

In the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle, Lark In The Mornin is the top favourite, but O’Brien disclosed uncertainty surrounding the horse's participation. Discussing his other entries, O’Brien stated,

“Nurburgring is set to compete in the Triumph Hurdle, while Home By The Lee will feature in the Stayers’ Hurdle. Solness will represent us in the Grand Annual, and Busselton is geared up for the Ultima Handicap Chase. We have a promising lineup of contenders across these events."