Plasterer confirmed for Arkle Chase

Tom Cooper has confirmed Forpadydeplasterer as an intended runner in the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at Cheltenham next month rather than tackling the RSA Chase.

The seven-year-old, who was a Grade One winner over hurdles last season, made the perfect start to his fencing career with victory at Punchestown but has finished second on his three subsequent starts.

Cooper admits it is a record he hopes his charge will be able end at Prestbury Park next month, where the likely better ground will suit him well.

'Everything is hunky-dory with him and he will definitely run in the Arkle rather than the RSA Chase,' said Cooper.

'He has come out of his last race in great form and I think he would prefer a bit nicer ground than what he has been running on, which it looks like we'll get at Cheltenham.

'He's finished second in three Grade One races this season which is some record. If he can win the big one at Cheltenham we'll settle for that.'