Sports Line was cut for the Arkle Trophy after putting in an eye-catching schooling session after racing at Leopardstown today.
Willie Mullins' seven-year-old jumped beautifully in the hands of Ruby Walsh in a workout with established stable companions Barker and Golden Silver and finished on their heels after being allowed to coast home after brushing through the last.
To my eyes he was the mots impressive of any Cheltenham candidate put through their paces.
He looks a natural over the larger obstacles, and the enthusiasm he showed in attacking his fences will stand him in good stead next month at Prestbury Park.
Bookmakers agree and now make him general 10-1 shot for the Arkle, with Paddy Power going alone at a standout 12s.
That's good news for puntinplay followers who were advised to snap up the 20s on offer for him before he finished second to An Cathaoir Mor at Leopardstown back in November.
