Layers Still Wary Of Walsh Blitz

Ruby Walsh remains a hot favourite to become top rider at the Cheltenham Festival, despite drawing a blank on day one of the showpiece meeting.

Walsh is as short as 5-4 with Blue Square, while totesport are a shade more generous at 6-4.

First day honours were divided between six different jockeys and the only move was for Robert Thornton ? into 6-1 from 10-1 with totesport after his win on My Way De Solzen in the Arkle.

Walsh's rides on the day include red-hot favourite Denman in the Royal & SunAlliance Chase.

David Pipe saddled a first Festival winner with Gaspara in the finale, but Nicky Henderson looks well placed with a second and three thirds to mount his usual strong challenge on the trainers' accolade.

(C) PA Sport