Cheltenham unlikely for Nolan ace
Joncol is likely to run at either Fairyhouse or Punchestown as long as there is plenty of cut in the ground following his convincing victory at Naas on Sunday.
The RSA Chase at Cheltenham could come too soon for Paul Nolan’s six-year-old, who looked an exciting prospect when winning the Grade Two Woodlands Park 100 Nas Na Riogh Novice Chase.
Ideally, Nolan wants to give the son of Bob’s Return just one more run this season, with the April Festivals at Fairyhouse and Punchestown making more appeal than Cheltenham.
“We are still going to speak to the owners about Cheltenham, but more than likely it’s going to come too soon,” said the Wexford-based handler.
“We will probably concentrate on Fairyhouse and Punchestown, as long as there is enough cut in the ground.
“I’d say it’s more than likely we’ll be aiming for one more run before he takes his break.
“If we haven’t got genuine winter safe ground we won’t be taking any chances with him.
“I think three miles will be his trip in the long run and, hopefully, he’ll be up to that Grade One standard.”
Meanwhile, Nolan’s team for Cheltenham is taking shape.
He added: “We’ll have more than likely Dix Villez for the cross country race, Alpha Ridge for the Albert Bartlett, Shinrock Paddy for the bumper and we’ll have a couple of horses entered in the handicaps as well.
“Hopefully we’ll have nearly a full lorry going over.”
