Angus McNae's Racing UK Blog
	Wednesday 16th March 2016

Mullins can build on his opening treble

I have already detailed in my Cheltenham lays column that I think Yanworth could have a bit of his father Norse Dancer about him in terms of quirks.

With that in mind I am delighted that Yorkhill is taking him on in the Neptune Investment Novices’ Hurdle and he is my NAP selection on day two.

Yorkhill is four from four under rules. He was impressive when he won the Tolworth Hurdle and the form of that race is working out very well.

The second and third have both won decent races since and Yorkhill thrashed them both. Most of his form has been on soft or heavy ground and it may be that drying conditions has prompted Willie Mullins to run here rather than than the Supreme Novices Hurdle on Tuesday in which he might have been done for speed. Yorkhill has already won over two and a half miles so the 2m5f of the Neptune is likely to be no problem. Will be no problem.

The RSA Chase is always a tough race for novices and I think it is perfect for No More Heroes, who was unlucky when hampered in the Albert Bartlett last year.

Since he has gone chasing he looks to be an improved performer. He won a beginners’ chase before taking two Grade One contests in style. He was very impressive in the Drinmore Novices Chase when he beat Monksland. At Leopardstown next time out he murdered Rule The World without coming off the bridle.

The Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase represents a double play for me. I think Un De Sceaux will win, and win easily, but I also believe that Dodging Bullets will be a completely different proposition after his Newbury return and should be backed each-way – I may even consider the forecast!

Many people were disappointed with Dodging Bullets on his delayed return at Newbury, but I thought he jumped and travelled well before blowing up. He will be a lot straighter today, will appreciate the ground and the likely furious pace will allow him to travel and creep into the race late on. He could easily make the frame at a decent price and let's not forget he is still officially rated 171, which is two pounds higher than Un De Sceaux.

Un De Sceaux has obvious claims and his five-length defeat of Sire De Grugy last time at Ascot showed he is an improved performer.

He seemed open to be restrained, he was listening to Ruby Walsh at his fences and he bolted up. With a clear round I believe he will win.

Angus McNae's Cheltenham Festival day two: 

1.30 Cheltenham: Yorkhill at 9-4 generally available

2.10 Cheltenham: No More Heroes at 5-2 generally available

3.30 Cheltenham: Un De Sceaux at 8-11 generally available 

3.30 Cheltenham: Dodging Bullets each-way at 12-1 generally available