16:15 Naas Hunters Chase

Race preview

Terrific fare. Patrick Mullins said that BILLAWAY's jumping is getting quicker and slicker after the pair obliged at Down Royal in December. Doubtless all roads lead back to the Foxhunter at the Cheltenham Festival where he finished second last March. He won this race by eight lengths last year and looks the one to beat. His stablemate Dragon D'estruval could improve upon a third place at Kirkistown in November. That was his first run since switching to Willie Mullins from Nicky Henderson. It Came To Pass was the horse that beat Billaway (by 10 lengths) in Cheltenham and should be fitter from his fourth in a hunters chase at Fairyhouse in November. David Christie sends On The Sod down from the north, and this nine-year-old gelding is unbeaten in five appearances albeit left clear at the last when in a battle at Kirkistown in November. He's a strong galloper who won a hunters chase at Downpatrick in March by 14 lengths. He could show up well. Aloneamongmillions was unbeaten until finishing third to Billaway in Down Royal. Staker Wallace is another to consider after a good victory in the Earl Of Harrington at Limerick. A patient approach with him is being rewarded. Prolific point-to-point winner Winged Leader adds further spice to the mix.