Kempes team ponder Cheltenham target

A decision on Kempes' participation in the totesport Cheltenham Gold Cup is not expected for at least a week.

The eight-year-old, trained by Willie Mullins, leapt into the picture for the blue riband prize when winning the rearranged Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday.

He has an alternative entry in the Ryanair Chase at the Festival and connections are in no hurry as to make definite plans for him.

"It was a great win and he's come out of the race very well," said Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus.

"We'll sit on it for about a week or so and then decide about Cheltenham.

"He stayed the three miles and handled the ground quite well. It was very encouraging. We couldn't be more pleased with him."

Kempes is 16-1 with the sponsors for the Gold Cup and 25-1 for the Ryanair.