Native River can take the sting out of Might's bite

1.30 JCB Triumph Hurdle

Ruby Walsh returned from a broken leg only last Thursday. The most successful jockey in festival history should have become even more successful over the first three days of this meeting but if, by some chance, he arrives at the final day in need of a win, his choice among the Mullins horses in the Triumph could be as testing as the going.

Mr Adjudicator has won a Grade 1 (but not by much from Farclas) while Stormy Ireland, Saldier and Sayo have all won their sole starts in Ireland. Stormy Ireland did so by 58 lengths. “I’ll have to have a sit on them all next week,” observed Walsh, “and see if one of them gives me a feel that the others don’t.”

Apple’s Shakira, We Have A Dream and Redicean have seen more extensive action in British hurdle races without defeat, for trainers who know all about Triumph success. Apple’s Shakira boosted her case by winning hers in the mud at Cheltenham.