Europe in great form

Henry de Bromhead is delighted with Sizing Europe's preparation for the Cheltenham Festival next month.

His star two-mile novice chaser is generally available at 6-1 for the Irish Independent Arkle Trophy on March 16th after showing himself to be a major force by winning all his four races over fences to date.

The eight-year-old was given a break after his latest success at Leopardstown on Boxing Day, when he took advantage of Captain Cee Bee's fall at the final fence to land the Grade One Bord Na Mona - With Nature Novice Chase.

"He's in great form, we're delighted with him and he seems really well," said the County Waterford trainer.

"He loves that better ground and he comes to himself in the spring. He runs well fresh so we thought it would suit to give him a bit of a break before Cheltenham."

De Bromhead explained why he entered Sizing Europe for the Queen Mother Champion Chase as well the Arkle.

"We have given him an entry in the Queen Mother but he'll stick to novice company," he went on.

"If Master Minded didn't turn up, you never know. Our horse beat Big Zeb over hurdles and he's the second favourite. It's good just to have options."