Bachasson galloping up the hill at Galway© Photo Healy Racing
Owner Eddie O'Connell and his family are enjoying a good time with their horses this season and despite unappealing recent form figures, connections will be hoping that Bachasson can get back on track in the sportinglife.com Beginners Chase at Punchestown on Saturday.
The Voix Du Nord gelding unseated Patrick Mullins at the final flight in the Albert Bartlett at Cheltenham last spring when still in with place prospects.
At the beginning of December, the grey was launched over the larger obstacles at Thurles and he was expected to deliver, going off at odds of 8-15.
In truth, viewers couldn't be sure how things went on that occasion, as the County Tipperary track was shrouded in a heavy fog. What we do know, though, is that favourite-backers failed to collect, with Bachasson coming down at the last in an event that went to Tully East.
Ruby Walsh, aboard then, is back on the Willie Mullins runner here. Walsh revealed in the aftermath that his mount was well held when falling, and that he hadn't jumped as well as he'd schooled.
The French-bred did sustain a little nick on his near fore joint, but Mullins' son Patrick is anticipating something better from the Closutton participant now.
He said: "We're hoping he'll put in a clear round and get off the mark.
"When the ground dries up in the spring, he could be one of our better novice chasers."
Whilst Bachasson steps up to two and a half miles, Cheltenham Festival hero Mall Dini is dropping back from three miles for this assignment after finishing third behind A Genie In Abottle at this venue.
He has definite prospects, along with another horse trained in County Galway, Steve Mahon's Champagne Harmony Others to keep in mind are Joseph O'Brien's pair of Arkwrisht and Edwulf as well as Robin Thyme
Mahon also has a chance in the Connolly's RED MILLS Amateur National For The Conyngham Cup Qualified Riders Handicap Chase. Like Champagne Harmony, He Rock's is in the ownership of Tom Quinn, and he should go well in the three-mile-one-furlong event under Barry O'Neill.
