Bolger hoping for more Cheltenham success

Enda Bolger has not won Cheltenham's cross-country race since 2009, but aims to put that right on Tuesday.

The Co Limerick trainer has two chances of ending his drought in the three-mile-seven-furlong Glenfarclas Handicap Chase with Arabella Boy and Freneys Well.

Despite his lack of a recent success in this unique contest, Bolger still has a record second to none, with four victories since its inception in 2005.

Arabella Boy, the mount of Nina Carberry, is Bolger's first string, though he had no luck on his first run on this cross-country course in December.

The eight-year-old held every chance when unseating Carberry at the 27th fence in the race won by Outlaw Pete.

"It was just one of those things last time at Cheltenham. He has a nice weight (10st 9lb) and I see last year's winner Balthazar King doesn't run," said Bolger.

"I think he'll give a good account of himself.

"He's fit to go."

Though Freneys Well is now 13, Bolger does not believe he is a forlorn hope.

"He'll be there picking up the pieces as well. He's ready to run a decent race," said the trainer.

Outlaw Pete used to be in Bolger's care but is now with John Halley and struck for him over these obstacles in December in the hands of the trainer's son, Josh.

Not disgraced in two races over regulation fences since then, Outlaw Pete is expected to enjoy a return to Cheltenham.

"He's in wonderful order. We're hoping the ground will be soft enough for him," said Halley snr.

"He's gone up a bit in the weights and we're just hoping he gets a clear round.

"We're going there for a bit of fun and it falls our way we'll be delighted to take it."