Cooldine RSA Chase Bound

All roads lead to Cheltenham for Cooldine after his game victory in the Dr PJ Moriarty Novice Chase at Leopardstown on Sunday.

The seven-year-old looked to have plenty on his plate when challenged by Forpadydeplasterer at the final fence but he battled back on the run-in to take the Grade One prize by two and a half lengths.

The RSA Chase at the Cheltenham Festival is next on the gelding's agenda and although he has not won over three miles under rules, Mullins has no stamina concerns for his charge.

"We were delighted with Cooldine and he seems to be an out-and-out stayer," said the County Carlow handler.

"I thought he jumped really well and showed great powers of reserve after the last as he looked beaten and then came back to win.

"I would think the RSA Chase would be the obvious target for him now as his owner has Golden Silver for the Arkle, so that is the way we would be looking.

"His best performance over hurdles was at Punchestown when he ran fourth against the older horses.

"There was no novice race for him there so we ran him in the big stayers' race over three miles and I have no doubts about him getting the trip."