Cromwell relishing Grade 1 test with Espoir d'Allen Gavin Cromwell is hopeful Espoir D'Allen can rise to the challenge of his biggest test to date in the Tattersalls Ireland Spring Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown on Sunday. The JP McManus-owned four-year-old has won each of his four starts since touching down on Irish soil, most recently claiming a Grade Two prize at this venue over Christmas. He steps up to Grade One level on his return to the Foxrock circuit and will be a hot favourite to maintain his unbeaten record at the expense of four rivals. Cromwell said: " He's done nothing wrong so far and hopefully he's still improving. "We're looking forward to the race and it's exciting to be going there with a horse with a big chance on a big day. "It's time for him to step up and we'll see what he can do. "The ground should be fine for him." The Gordon Elliott-trained Farclas was just over a length behind Espoir D'Allen over the festive period and given that was his hurdling debut, it is no surprise that some fancy him to turn the tables. Elliott said: "H e's definitely improved a lot. It was unbelievable to think he was taking on those horses for his first run over hurdles and he was only beaten just over a length. "I know Gavin's horse is very good, and he probably only just keeps pulling out enough, but our lad has improved and he's in very good order." Elliott also saddles Mitchouka, who won for the third time over hurdles at Fairyhouse three weeks ago, but appears held on previous form with Espoir D'Allen. Willie Mullins relies on Mr Adjudicator, who was an impressive winner on his jumping bow over the course and distance. Patrick Mullins, assistant to his father, said: "We were delighted with Mr Adjudicator over Christmas. His jumping was very good and he settled great for an ex-Flat horse. "We're very excited about him. Gavin Cromwell's horse obviously sets the standard and it will be interesting to see where our horse fits in around him."
