Keane keeps Champion ride on Latalomne

Conditional jockey Vinnie Keane has retained the plum ride on Queen Mother Champion Chase hope Latalomne, it was confirmed today.

Keane has ridden Latalomne in his last four starts but connections had been considering getting a more experienced rider for the big race.

However, trainer Brian Ellison said: 'Vinnie rides.'

Ellison also runs Batswing at the Festival.

The progressive novice has the choice of two engagements in the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy on Tuesday and the Grand Annual Handicap Chase on the final afternoon.

But Batswing is an intended runner in Thursday`s race.

'It makes sense to run there instead of the Arkle against the likes of Seebald and Barton whereas he`d be second or third favourite for the Grand Annual,' the trainer said.

Ellison put the finishing touches to Latalomne and Batswing`s preparation this morning and he reported: 'They were brilliant. They both schooled well, worked well - they are in great form. I was pleased with their jumping and I`d be happy if the ground came good.

'We don`t know about a jockey for Batswing yet. Vinnie was going to ride but he can`t do the weight -we`ll have to see what the weights do.'