Even the lure of the Aintree Grand National fences can’t tempt Ruby Walsh away from Navan this afternoon which is hardly surprising considering some of the emerging Willie Mullins-trained talent set to line up there.
The Grade Two winner Felix Yonger is joined by the hugely exciting novice Faugheen and a pair of French imports in Vautour and Urticaire that comprise an enviable book of rides for the former champion jockey. That leaves Paul Townend on duty at Liverpool where the Mullins-trained On His Own returns for another crack at the National fences in the Becher Chase, a race that sees other Irish interest in the former Cheltenham Festival winner, Sizing Australia.
Faugheen in particular carries a huge reputation into the novice hurdle today, while Felix Yonger’s status as a potential Arkle candidate should survive a four-horse race where two of his rivals are stable companions.
Aidan O'Brien has an interesting newcomer in the mares maiden hurdle where the JP McManus purchase, Beach Of Falesa, a 93-rated performer on the flat, will be ridden by Robbie Power.
However, Urticaire boasts an eye-catching profile having scored five times in France before being purchased by Michael O’Leary.
