KNIFE TO EDGE CLOSER TO CHELTENHAM HONOURS

The Cheltenham picture should become a little clearer after Sunday`s fare at Fairyhouse when several major players, notably Knife Edge and Ned Kelly, put their respective reputations on the line at the county Meath track.

Knife Edge is currently a best price 6/1 second favourite behind Best Mate for the Arkle at the Cotswolds next month and, if he is to throw down a serious challenge to one of the emerging English bankers at the Festival, he must account for his five rivals in the Tied Cottage Novice Chase over two miles.

Now carrying the famous J.P.McManus colours after a substantial six figure deal last year, Michael O`Brien`s gelding recouped some of that outlay for the Geneva-based multi-millionaire when slamming Well Ridden in the Denny Chase at Leopardstown over Christmas.

On that occasion he had six lengths to spare over the runner-up after the chasing Alcapone crashed out at the last, but it was the manner of his victory, the way he travelled throughout the contest and his fluent display of jumping, that makes him a firm choice to follow up at the expense of the versatile Takagi and Quality First.

Ned Kelly is ante-post favourite with all firms for the Supreme Novices` Hurdle - as low as 7/4 in places - and, receiving 3lbs from Penny Rich, he can go to Cheltenham unbeaten over hurdles with a comprehensive victory in the INH Novice Hurdle Series.

Penny Rich is no slouch and rated 126 over the smaller obstacles can test Edward O`Grady`s gelding. He seems to relish racing and having run no less than 19 times last year winning four, including the valuable Smithwicks Beer Handicap Hurdle at Listowel, he cannot be dismissed lightly especially if you are planning to have a decent wager on Ned Kelly.

Willie Mullins appears to have a wealth of talent emerging for the Cheltenham bumper and he can add another string to that bow in the shape of Summer In Siberia.

On his only appearance last season he chased home warm favourite Kickham at the Punchestown Festival in a 2m bumper that has yielded several subsequent winners. The form looks rock solid and he looks the one to get you out of trouble in the finale.

BF SELECTIONS

1.55 SNOB WELLS

2.25 KNIFE EDGE

2.55 NED KELLY

3.25 NO PROBLEM

3.55 UNFORGOTTON STAR (EW)

4.25 SUPER FELLOW

4.55 SUMMER IN SIBERIA (Nap)

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