Blood Destiny at 14/1 in the Arkle
The recent defeat of odds-on favourite Marine Nationale in the Irish version of the Arkle has blown the race wide open. However, the public is not convinced about backing Leopardstown winner Il Etait Temps at the revised odds of 5/1. Despite his previous victory at the DRF and a decent performance at Cheltenham last year, he fell short. While Willie Mullins continues to have faith in Facile Vega, the third-place finisher, it appears that he would benefit from a longer trip. Additionally, with Gaelic Warrior likely to stick to right-hand tracks in the near future, it might be worth taking a chance on one of the outsiders from Clossutton. Hunters Yarn made a positive impression at Fairyhouse and is priced at 8/1 with NRNB options available at some firms. However, considering the potential of wet weather and the prospect of a bold, front-running ride, Blood Destiny could be an interesting bet at this stage. Moreover, the money-back concession adds further appeal, as his participation in the race is not guaranteed. With his recent performance where he seemed to require a return to the minimum trip and his impressive jumping ability, Blood Destiny's current odds of 14/1 may present a promising opportunity in this year's Arkle.
Corbetts Cross at 4/1 in National Hunt Chase
Emmet Mullins' entry, Corbetts Cross, did not participate in the Dublin Racing Festival or Sandown's Grade 1 Scilly Isles Novices' Chase, but his abilities would have been well-suited to either event last weekend. The fact that he has been declared for Wednesday's 'Rated Chase' at Fairyhouse under the guidance of Derek O'Connor speaks volumes about his plans. It seems that he is now JP McManus's top contender for the NH Chase at Cheltenham. Assuming his preparation goes smoothly this week, there is a strong chance that he will be a short-priced favourite for the three and three-quarter mile contest at the Festival. Already rated 150p by Timeform and having finished as a Grade 1 runner-up, he has demonstrated enough potential to suggest he can secure victory in the race. Moreover, there is room for further improvement this spring. It would be quite tempting if bookmakers were offering NRNB on the Grand National at this stage too, with current odds of 40/1 available in some places.
Majborough at 10/1 in JCB Triumph Hurdle
There is a noticeable concern that Majborough's exceptional performance in Saturday's Spring Juvenile Hurdle hasn't received the attention it deserves. This French import made a strong debut in Ireland after a 307-day absence, finishing just a length and three-quarters behind the winner. There was significant market support before the race, indicating high expectations, and Majborough's jumping was impressive throughout, displaying great tenacity when challenged by stablemates Kargese and Storm Heart. While the task of defeating Nicky Henderson's Sir Gino in this year's Triumph Hurdle won't be easy, if there's a race that could produce a winner capable of challenging him at Cheltenham, it's likely to be the Leopardstown race. With the potential for further improvement on a demanding New Course, Majborough at 10/1 should definitely be considered as a strong contender in the JCB Triumph Hurdle.