Danny Mullins is eagerly anticipating the chance to reunite with Il Etait Temps in the My Pension Expert Arkle Challenge Trophy at Cheltenham.
The duo has clinched Grade One victories at the last two Dublin Racing Festivals, most recently triumphing in the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown last month.
Despite stable jockey Paul Townend opting to ride Gaelic Warrior, who convincingly defeated Il Etait Temps at Limerick over Christmas, Mullins retains the mount on the grey and is confident of another strong performance. He aims to replicate the same feat achieved by El Fabiolo a year ago.
"I thought Paul might have chosen to ride him since he was the favourite all week, but Gaelic Warrior has shown both brilliance and inconsistency," Mullins remarked. "I'm thrilled to be on my horse; I believe any one of four contenders could win, and I'm certainly one of them."
Il Etait Temps represents the Hollywood Syndicate and Barnane Stud, with the latter linked to former England cricketer Craig Kieswetter. Kieswetter noted,
"He may not be the most graceful, but his determination and spirit shine through. His style of racing and jumping may not be the prettiest, but he has delivered for us in Grade Ones and shown promise since joining Willie's yard."
Gaelic Warrior, a two-time Cheltenham Festival runner-up, faltered at the Dublin Racing Festival, unseating Townend while trailing behind stablemate Fact To File.
Mullins fields a third contender in Hunters Yarn, while the Irish challenge includes Irish Arkle runner-up Found A Fifty, Triumph Hurdle victor Quilixios, and My Mate Mozzie.
Among the British hopefuls is JPR One, who looked poised for victory in the Arkle Trial at Cheltenham before falling at the final fence. Joe Tizzard believes in the potential of JPR One, hoping for a clear round to showcase his ability on drier ground.
Gary Moore's Authorised Speed and Nigel Twiston-Davies' duo, Master Chewy and Matata, complete the field. Twiston-Davies expressed confidence in his runners, particularly Matata, who impressed on New Year's Day.