Mullins holds strong Xmas hand Willie Mullins has dominated Irish jump racing over the past few weeks and it is not surprising that the champion trainer holds a very strong hand in the six Grade 1 races at the Leopardstown Christmas Festival, entries for which were released today. The Racing Post Novice Chase is the highlight on day one of the Festival which runs from December 26-29, and Mullins holds seven of the 23 entries for this two miles and a furlong event. Sir Des Champs, Call The Police and Lambro are just three of the Mullins entries to have impressed already over fences this term, while impressive Drinmore Chase winner Bog Warrior and Days Hotel, a Punchestown Grade 2 victor, also stand out. Paddy Power is the traditional sponsor on day two of the meeting and there is a select entry of nine for the Paddy Power Dial-A-Bet Chase. Champion chaser Sizing Europe is reportedly a doubtful runner following his impressive display in the Tingle Creek at Sandown last Saturday, but the likes of Big Zeb, Noble Prince, Tranquil Sea and Forpadydeplasterer should ensure a classy contest. Mullins has a good line on novice hurdle form through Sous Les Cieux, and his recent “Royal Bond” winner heads a team of seven for the yard among the total of 20 entries in the paddypower.com Future Champions Novice Hurdle. Chasers take the limelight on day three at the Foxrock venue, with the Lexus Chase and the Topaz Fort Leney Novice Chase both Grade 1 events. The Lexus Chase with it's 17 entries should provide a fascinating match-up between the established order and the up-and-coming talent. Denman is one of three British entries along with Skippers Brig and Synchronised while Quito De La Roque, winner of the Jnwine.com Champion Chase at Down Royal last month, heads the band of second-season chasers. Joncol, Rubi Light, Bostons Angel and Magnanimity are other entries that catch the eye. The Topaz Fort Leney Novice Chase is also run over three miles, and Michael O'Leary's Gigginstown House Stud could hold all the aces here with Bog Warrior and Last Instalment among the 25 entries. The Istabraq Festival Hurdle is the highlight on the fourth and final day of the Christmas Festival, and Mullins holds six of the 14 entries here with Hurricane Fly, Thousand Stars and Zaidpour among his strong team. Dermot Weld has already confirmed this two-miler as the next race for Unaccompanied.
