'His schooling's been unbelievable' - Thursday's most revealing trainer quotes

The third day of the Punchestown festival features yet more Grade 1 action and the card is headlined by the Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle. Here, we note the most revealing quotes from connections on today's card.

Thursday's racecards| Big-race tips

4.15 Punchestown
Pigsback.com Handicap Chase, 2m

Louise Lyons, trainer of Espion Du Chenet:

"He's had a bit of a break after Aintree but he's been fine and has not missed any work. He's had a brilliant season and he'll love the ground."

SP forecast: 20-1

4.50 Punchestown
Mongey Communications La Touche Cup Cross Country Chase, 4m2f

Philip Rothwell, trainer of Singing Banjo:

"I think Singing Banjo has a great chance. The ground is in his favour and, while he has a lot of weight to carry, I think he'll put up a bold show. His schooling has been unbelievable at home."

SP forecast: 14-1

5.25 Punchestown
Ladbrokes Champion Stayers Hurdle (Grade 1), 2m7½f

Gordon Elliott, trainer of Sire Du Berlais:

"It won't be easy against Klassical Dream and Paisley Park, but if he shows up in the same sort of form as he did at Aintree you would like to think he has a decent chance. He seems to have come out of Aintree in great order and I'm very happy with him."

SP forecast: 6-1

6.35 Punchestown
Barberstown Castle Novice Chase (Grade 1), 2m

Gavin Cromwell, trainer of Gabynako:

"We think the ground should hopefully suit him well. He's come out of his run in the Arkle in good form and has been freshened up since."

SP forecast: 3-1

Thursday's Punchestown previews:

4.15 Punchestown: 'He seems in great form' – Grange Walk out for quick redemption for John Ryan

4.50 Punchestown: Williams out to end best-ever season on a high with stable star Potters Corner

5.25 Punchestown: 'I hope he can behave himself, he has the ability' – Townend on Klassical Dream

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