UN De Sceaux takes his chance in a red hot Ryanair Chase this afternoon on the third day of the Cheltenham Festival.

Paul Townend will be in the saddle and the overnight rain will be welcomed by his supporters on Leeside. The 11-year-old has been working very well according to connections and this brilliant horse has been a marvellous servant to the O’Connell family from Glanmire.

Colm O’Connell said: “Un De Sceaux has been the horse of a lifetime and has won a total of 18 races which is amazing really. All the reports from the people up in Mullins say his homework is excellent.

“He’s only run once this season and that was back in early December against Altior in the Tingle Creek at Sandown. It was a cracking effort to run Altior so close and we saw what a great champion he is with his victory in the Champion Chase yesterday.”

But this is a really hot race with Ruby Walsh opting to ride Footpad who won the Arkle at last year’s festival.

Monalee under Cork jockey Noel Fehily also looks a massive danger while Road To Respect is another for the shortlist.

Altior was the toast of Cheltenham after recording his 18th consecutive victory in a magnificent Champion Chase yesterday.

Gordon Elliot recorded a double with Tiger Roll and Envoi Allen as his horses eventually found form.