Options For Etoile Accordion Etoile could bypass the Baileys Arkle Perpetual Challenge Cup Novice Chase in favour of an alternative engagement at Naas. Trainer Paul Nolan is mulling over the options for his seven-year-old after giving the gelding a break following his win at Cheltenham last November. The Grade One event at Leopardstown on January 29 is a possibility, but Nolan is also eyeing a race at Naas on February 11. 'He´s in great shape and seems well,' said the County Wexford handler. 'We have given him a nice break as he´s not really a winter horse and he´s in good form. 'We could go for a conditions race at Naas rather than the Irish Arkle as that might come a bit too quick for him. 'Naas is about four weeks before Cheltenham and we are keen to get a bit more experience into him. 'Hopefully, we will get a couple of decent pieces of work into him and then we can make a decision about whether to run in the Arkle.' Accordion Etoile is currently the general 5-1 joint-favourite along with Racing Demon for the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival.(C) PA Sport
