Sports Line looking for Arkle glory
Willie Mullins admits he would prefer Sports Line to have had more experience over fences ahead of his tilt at the Frank Ward Solicitors Arkle Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Sunday.
The champion trainer talked up the seven-year-old at the start of the season and he duly turned in a hugely impressive performance on his fencing introduction at Navan in November.
He has missed intended engagements since due to the inclement weather and Mullins would prefer his charge to have had more match practice going into a Grade One contest.
“He’s been a bit unlucky with the weather and we’re asking him a big question putting him in a race like this on his second start over fences, but we have to do it,” said Mullins.
“We’re happy with him at the moment and we’ll just see how he gets on, but he’ll love the ground.”
Mullins has a second string to his bow in the shape of Lilywhitedancer, who opened his account over fences at the second time of asking at Fairyhouse last month.
“It’s a step up for Lilywhitedancer but the ground will suit him as well and we can always go back down in class afterwards if it doesn’t work out,” the trainer added.
Paul Nicholls sends Take The Breeze to Ireland following three successes in as many starts over fences this season.
With Ruby Walsh claimed by Mullins to ride Sports Line, the seven-year-old will have the assistance of Tony McCoy in the saddle.
Nicholls said: “He will love the ground and it has surprised us how he has improved this year.”
Colm Murphy is represented by the talented Zaarito, who already has course form having won with his head in his chest at Leopardstown over Christmas.
“He seems good and everything has gone well since Leopardstown the last day,” said Murphy.
“He should handle the ground all right and we know he handles the track so touch wood, he goes there with a right chance.
“Denis (O’Regan) said he gave him lovely feel last time and he’s on him again so fingers crossed, he’ll run a big race. It will be interesting.”
