Elliott seeking more Cheltenham Fortune

Gordon Elliott is happy with Mega Fortune ahead of his tilt at JCB Triumph Hurdle glory at Cheltenham.

The son of Soldier Of Fortune defeated the Willie Mullins-trained Bapaume to land the Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown five weeks ago.

"He's won a Grade One and has the form in the book. You can say what they are, but you can't beat having the form in the book," said Elliott.

"I'd say cheekpieces and being ridden a bit more positively will make more difference than the ground.

"He wouldn't pick up the bridle at home, he's like an old three-mile chaser. You wouldn't think he's a Flat-bred horse at all."

The in-form County Meath handler has a second string to his bow in Dinaria Des Obeaux who was awarded her latest race in the stewards' room after being beaten a nose by Ex Patriot at Fairyhouse. Ellmarie Holden's charge is also among the 16 declarations.

Joseph O'Brien supervised the victory of his father's Ivanovich Gorbatov 12 months ago and is responsible for Landofhopeandglory who was third behind Dinaria Des Obeaux in that controversial race.

"Landofhopeandglory would have an each-way chance, he has been running very well all year and there's no reason he can't be in the first three," said the rookie trainer.

Frank Berry, racing manager for owner JP McManus, said: "He's been very good at home and his runs are very solid with the Irish horses.

"He had a bit of a break after Christmas and came back and ran very well in deep ground at Fairyhouse. This better ground will suit him. Whether he's good enough or not after that, we will see."

The McManus silks will also be carried by ante-post favourite Defi Du Seuil and Charli Parcs

Berry said of the Philip Hobbs-trained market leader: "You couldn't have asked for a better run with him. He's done everything asked for him and we couldn't be happier with him.

"He's very consistent and Philip is delighted with him.

"The Triumph is hard to win, but he goes there in good nick. We just hope he gets a clear run and that all goes well."