David Nicholson Mares Bets

The retirement of Whiteoak, who to my mind was one of just four potential winners, has weakened this race further, as has the retirement of Candy Creek this week.

I can pass on news that last season’s third Aura About You for the Paul Nolan yard is likely to make her seasonal debut in this race and I’ve heard good reports about her latest gallop where she reportedly tanked up the gallops.

Last season’s Champion Bumper fifth Morning Supreme (12/1 with Stan James) has leapt into disputing joint third-favouritism now with the bookmakers. Willie Mullins had intimated going for one of the novice races with her but as the race is turning into somewhat of a non-event it would appear he may let her take her chance even if he does run the hot favourite.

Mullins’ J’Y Vole, currently 14/1 with Paddy Power has also been a mover which would mean a switch from the Ryanair Chase if that is the case but, reading his quotes on Sunday, the Ryanair remains the plan.

As the race is falling apart, Jessica Harrington is now also having second thoughts about running Zarinava (16/1 with William Hill) who she ruled out a couple of weeks back fearing she wouldn’t stay, so unless they have shortened the course in the last fortnight, she wouldn’t be on my radar.

Colm Murphy has confirmed Barry Geraghty for the ride on Voler La Vedette.