Odds-on favourite Douvan has 13 rivals at this stage for the Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy at Cheltenham on Tuesday.
The six-year-old, who claimed the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle 12 months ago at Prestbury Park, is tipped to be the horse to beat in the Arkle after an unbeaten career over fences so far.
Douvan is not Willie Mullins‘ only hope in the race as Ireland’s champion trainer also has contenders in Shaneshill and Outlander at this stage, with the Festival less than a week away.
Nicky Henderson‘s duo, Vaniteux and L’Ami Serge, are also on the list at the moment but reports say the latter is more likely to feature in the JLT Novices’ Chase next week.
Fox Norton and Baltimore Rock remain interests of Neil Mulholland, with Venetia Williams deciding on Aso and Zamdy Man at this stage for the race.
The Game Changer is also among the likely runners, while Henry de Bromhead’s duo, Sizing John and Sizing Codelco, remain among those declared.
However, Ttebbob, Velvet Maker, Arzal and Rock The World have all been taken out six days before the race.
