Gallop looks on cards for Dubh

Realt Dubh is more likely to have a racecourse gallop than run in the Ballsbridge Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday.

Noel Meade's dual Grade One-winning chaser has not been seen since running at last year's Punchestown Festival, but there is still every hope he could line up in either the Ryanair Chase or the Queen Mother Champion Chase at the Cheltenham Festival.

Meade entered his eight-year-old over the smaller obstacles this weekend, but he is currently favouring taking his charge to the racecourse for a less competitive workout.

"We gave him the entry on Sunday but it was no more than that and I'm not sure if he'll run," said Meade.

"At this stage I'd say it's more likely he'll either work after racing at Leopardstown or go for a gallop at Navan instead.

"So far everything is going well with him and he worked great the other day.

"Everything is on course at the moment. It is obviously a big ask to go to Cheltenham for your first run of the season, but he's in good shape at the moment."