Hardy Eustace - can win Champion again.

By Michael Clower

Hardy Eustace, a 33-1 shock a year ago, is bang on song for the Champion Hurdle and should repeat last season's win.

He has improved steadily all season and both his last run and his recent work have been good.

This stiff course brings out the best in him and he is a confident choice.

Brave Inca, who looks a good each way value at 7-1, may chase him home with Back In Front next best.

Justified seems sure to start favourite for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle but his best form has been in testing ground and Publican looks better value.

War Of Attrition's form took a knock when Naas runner-up Healy's Pub was well beaten at the same course on Sunday and punters should be wary of taking too short a price in the Arkle Trophy.

That said, the favourite's claims are based as much on his good run in the Supreme Novices' 12 months ago as on what he has done over fences this term and he may be good enough.

Spot Thedifference has been given a fair bit to do at the weights in the Cross Country Chase yet he had something in the tank in the second of his two wins over the course earlier in the season and he should justify favouritism.

Dermot Weld does not have many jumpers but he sends Ease The Way for the Fred Winter Novices' Handicap Hurdle and this comfortable Tramore winner looks an each way bet.

SELECTIONS
2.00 Publican
2.35 War Of Attrition
3.15 Hardy Eustace (Nap)
4.40 Spot Thedifference
5.20 Ease The Way (ew)