Angel among strong Irish RSA challenge

Irish raiders look to have a strong hand in the 16-strong field for the RSA Chase at Cheltenham on Wednesday.

Dual Grade One winner Bostons Angel will represent Jessica Harrington while fellow top level scorer Jessies Dream could line up for Gordon Elliott.

Willie Mullins is represented by Quel Esprit and Mikael D'Haguenet while Dessie Hughes' Magnanimity, conqueror of Jessies Dream and second to Boston Angel last time is another notable entry.

Colm Murphy has warned that Quito De La Roque would be unlikely to run if he felt conditions were too fast.

"It it's very quick I imagine he won't run, but he's good and his well. He's come out of his race the last day at Navan in great shape and I couldn't be happier with him," the County Wexford trainer told At The Races.

"He's improved with every run so he seems to be one that's on the up. I'd be hopeful if he ran.

"The further he goes the better. He has a great attitude for a race.

"He relaxes and he's everything you want in a racehorse. All he can do is improve and we're looking forward to him."

Time For Rupert has been ante-post favourite for the extended three-mile contest thanks to winning both his starts over fences at Cheltenham.

Although last year's World Hurdle runner-up was forced to miss an intended engagement back there in January, he is said to be back in good form by trainer Paul Webber.

Britain's champion trainer Paul Nicholls has left in Aiteen Thirtythree and The Minack, while Ian Williams' Wayward Prince and Wymott from Donald McCain's Cholmondeley yard are others to have stood their ground.