A first championship for Gordon Elliott rests on the broad shoulders of Samcro

David Jennings considers where the crown could be won and lost

In Punchestown's blue corner, Gordon Elliott. In Punchestown's red corner, Willie Mullins. One will be crowned Ireland's champion trainer

We've been here before, but this time the lead is bigger and the ammunition is more powerful.

Rewind 12 months and Gordon Elliott was €382,155 in front of Willie Mullins and quoted at 1-5 with Paddy Power to win his first championship.

This time the 40-year-old is €521,413 ahead yet is as big as 8-11 to hold on, despite having the sensational Samcro and the Triumph Hurdle hero Farclas added to his team. That tells you all you need to know.

Read the full story

Read award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing, with exclusive news, interviews, columns, investigations, stable tours and subscriber-only emails.

Subscribe to unlock

Racing Post digital newspaper (worth over £100 per month)
Award-winning journalism from the best writers in racing
Expert tips from the likes of Tom Segal and Paul Kealy
Replays and results analysis from all UK and Irish racecourses
Form study tools including the Pro Card and Horse Tracker
Extensive archive of statistics covering horses, trainers, jockeys, owners, pedigree and sales data

Already a subscriber?Log in

Published on 22 April 2018inIreland

Last updated 18:15, 22 April 2018

Copy