Fabulous racing over in Ireland at weekend – the Champions Festival at Leopardstown and the Curragh. I’m staying for an extra day (if only) and visiting Galway for Monday’s nap – putting my faith in a tried and trusted combination.

Trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore. Out of the very top drawer, these two. Let’s examine our case;

Galway 18.15 Annexation @ 15/8

This is a beginners chase – doing exactly what it says on the tin. So many fantastic Irish champions that come across and dominate at Cheltenham for example begin life in such contests, and the star-spotters will be out in force once more.

Henry and Rachael need little introduction, and fellow top-tier handler Gordon Elliott runs a couple too – Calico and Bravo Team. Annexation is a 7-yr-old gelded son of celebrated sire Wootton Bassett, and began life in England with trainer Ed Dunlop.

Decent enough, middling career to date but appears to finish his races stoutly rather than spectacularly, and chasing might just be his game. Bags of experience at any rate, great trainer, superb jockey. Lots of ticks in appropriate boxes and on that basis I’m happy to row in and declare this my NAP for Monday.

Lots needs to be taken on trust but that’s where the De Bromhead factor kicks in. Here’s a gentleman who’s handled the likes of Sizing Europe, A Plus Tard, Minella Indo, etc. Fanciful to think we’ve another of vaguely similar ability here but last time I looked it doesn’t cost anything to dream ..

Come on, Rach!