Top Notch Performer Set For Leopardstown

Pierse Chase winner Mister Top Notch is likely to take his chance in the Irish Hennessy at Leopardstown on Sunday week.

Davy Fitzgerald's nine-year-old won the Dr P.J. Moriarty Chase on the same card 12 months ago and his recent form has just about persuaded his handler to have a crack at the big prize.

'He's more than likely to run,' said Fitzgerald.

'We are toying between the Irish National and the Hennessy. Off his current rating of 152, he might have a lot to find in the Hennessy but he likes Leopardstown and he is still improving.

'He likes heavy ground as well, it can't be any worse than it was the last day.

'We haven't fully made our minds up but the fact that Denman and Kauto Star won't be coming over, I know there are still plenty of other good ones, but it looks to be cutting up.

'He'll nearly definitely run in the Hennessy with the way it is shaping up.

'Hopefully we could be the young pretender, you never know. On ratings we can't win but he is an improving horse and he may never be in this form again.'

(C) PA Sport