Europe and Champs still have Ryanair option

Sizing Europe remains among the 27 remaining entries for the Ryanair Chase at the CheltenhamFestival on March 14th.

Henry de Bromhead has taken the former Champion Chaser out of the Gold Cup but he still has the option of the 2m5f contest.

Leading Gold Cup contender Sir Des Champs, owned by Ryanair proprietor Michael O'Leary, also still has this option, as does First Lieutenant in the same ownership.

Rubi Light and Prince De Beauchene are other strong Irish hopes.

Seven Barrows maestro Nicky Henderson could call upon last year's winner Riverside Theatre and last year's Champion Chase hero Finian's Rainbow.

Tom George's Mail De Bievre showed up well for a long way in the Denman Chase and would look to be suited by a drop in trip, while Cue Card's Festival destination is likely to be decided after he runs this weekend.

Grands Crus, Champion Court, Menorah and Wishfull Thinking are others who remain in contention.

Among the 12 scratchings were Bog Warrior, Flemenstar and Unioniste.