Florida Pearl is believed to be in excellent form ahead of the James Nicholson Wine Merchant Champion Chase at Down Royal on Saturday. Trainer Willie Mullins is optimistic the gelding can continue his impressive run of form at the Northern Ireland track, and enthused: "I am delighted with him. I am hoping for a very good run. He's in great form. I am pleased with the weather and the ground. Everything seems to be all right for us."
Florida Pearl, having won the race in 1999, was a beaten favourite in the race last year behind Looks Like Trouble, Dorans Pride and Inis Cara. Looks Like Trouble, from the Noel Chance stable, suffered an injury afterwards and has not been out since.
Florida Pearl schooled over nine fences after racing at Punchestown at the weekend in preparation for Saturday's race, and thrilled the trainer. He added: "He warmed up over four fences with three stable companions and then worked over five fences at a decent pace."
Jockey Paul Carberry will be attempting to win the race on Florida Pearl for the second time having been on board in 1999.
Filed by Shane Murray
