Best Mate <DQ>intended runner<DQ> in Lexus Best Mate heads a star cast of equine talent on show at the upcoming Leopardstown Christmas meeting (December 26-29), which this year boasts prize-money in excess of 1.15m euro.Jim Lewis attended a press briefing on the four-day Festival today, and gave a clear indication that he intends to run Best Mate in the e150,000 Lexus Chase on December 28th, where he is likely to be opposed by Beef Or Salmon and Pizarro.The Durkan New Homes Novice Chase of 100,000 euro is the feature on the opening day, with Watson Lake and Like-A-Butterfly just two of the principals.Paddy Power again sponsor all seven races on day two of the Festival, with the e170,000 Paddy Power Chase having attracted a total of 73 entries and the Power Dial a Bet Chase now a Grade 1 event worth e70,000.The Lexus Chase is the main event on day three but is not the only Grade 1 race on the card as Mark The Man and Sandy Owen are among the contenders for the Ascon/Rohcon Novice Chase of e75,000.The Bewleys Hotels December Festival Hurdle of e80,000 looks sure to be a worthy highlight on the final day as Hardy Eustace, Harchibald and Solerina are all likely to run.The Tote Jackpot will be guaranteed for e40,000 on the opening three days and e30,000 on the final day. The ground at Leopardstown is currently yielding to soft.
