On a day of big-race clues, what was the most striking performance?

'Williams deserves a slice of praise'

What impressed me (again) was Evan Williams' prowess in preparing a horse for the big stage.

The trainer deflected credit for Coole Cody's thrilling Racing Post Gold Cup display to the horse, who had to overcome a horror spill in last month's Paddy Power Gold Cup.

He clearly had no mental scars, but Williams deserves a slice of praise for getting the ten-year-old spot on, and don't put it past him doing the same with Secret Reprieve in Chepstow's Coral Welsh Grand National over Christmas despite his near year-long absence since winning the race last season.
James Burn, Lambourn correspondent

'Top marks go to Blue Lord'

There were some admirable performances at Cheltenham and Doncaster, none more so than the Albert Bartlett-bound Blazing Khal, but the biggest clues for the future may well have come at Fairyhouse where Willie Mullins unleashed a couple of very smart novice chasers.

Stattler looks an exciting stayer based on his six-length win in the 2m5f beginners' chase but top marks go to Blue Lord, who made a big impression on his first start over fences in the 2m beginners' chase.

Rated 148 over hurdles, he looked a natural chaser and, along with Ferny Hollow and Appreciate It, only strengthened his trainer's grip on the two-milenovice chase division.
Lewis Porteous, reporter

'I find it hard to believe some 6-1 is available'

My Drogo was the most talented horse on duty and a sumptuous showdown with Bob Olinger in the Turners Novices' Chase has now edged a step closer. That will be some sight if it happens.

As regards the most striking performance on the day, I would have to say Stattler. The beginners' chase he won at Fairyhouse was quite a tasty affair and the turn of foot he showed to reel in stablemate Fighter Allen coming down to the last was something he had never shown before.

Willie Mullins mentioned the National Hunt Chase for him in his stable tour a few weeks ago and I find it hard to believe there is still some 6-1 available for that after this display. The further he goes the better he is going to be.
David Jennings, deputy Ireland editor

Saturday's results, replays and analysis

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My Drogo now 7-1 for Turners at festival after Cheltenham redemption

Fairytale return for Paul Townend as Blue Lord spearheads treble

'Cheltenham is always a dream' - Knight Salute set for the top after Summit win

Stag Horn shows festival potential for Archie Watson with hurdles debut success

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