MEADE BACK IN BIG TIME

Veteran trainer Cann’ end long wait and deliver his first Grade 1 victory since 2021 in Champion Bumper

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NOEL Meade can bridge a near four year gap since his last National Hunt Grade 1 success in today's €100,000 Champion Bumper at Punchestown.

The veteran Meade, champion trainer eight times in an era before Willie Mullins’ dominance, surprisingly last tasted victory at the highest level in 2021 when Beacon Edge won the Drinmore Chase at Fairyhouse.

The Meath handler’s COLCANNON (4.50) looks to have a great chance of following up his impressive Dublin Racing Festival success in today’s contest, that also includes Cheltenham’ Champion Bumper heroine Bambino Flyer.

Colcannon wasn't qualified for Cheltenham and subsequently arrives here fresh and, with top amateur Derek O'Connor booked again, he'll give the Willie Mullins’ trained Cotswolds winner plenty to think about.

The five-year-old was well-backed for that DRF win, a snug length and a half success over Sortudo, who boosted the form with a win at the recent Fairyhouse Easter meeting.

He’s keen going but the hood helped him settle at Leopardstown and there should be a strong gallop in a championship race like this.