Racing: Dunwoody prefers Ireland to Kempton

Richard Dunwoody, the most wanted man in racing, will go to Leopardstown on Wednesday after his important Boxing Day date with One Man.

The champion jockey is in the best form of his life and has trainers in Ireland and Britain clamouring for his services. He has passed up the opportunity to partner Ireland's Montelado in the Christmas Hurdle on Kempton's second day.

Instead, he will be in action at Leopardstown where his principal ride will be Gimme Five in the pounds 80,000 Paddy Power Handicap Chase.

"Richard was never definitely booked for Montelado, though he was offered the ride," his agent, Robert Parsons, said.

"He has a gentlemen's agreement with Gimme Five's trainer, Eddie O'Grady, and Dermot Weld so he has decided to ride for them on Wednesday.

"They also have plenty of runners on Boxing Day but were kind enough to free Richard to partner One Man."

Montelado's trainer, Pat Flynn, may now turn to Adrian Maguire if he is available on Wednesday.

"I understand Richard is under a lot of pressure and I'm sure we'll get something sorted. There are plenty of good jockeys available," Flynn said.

With Dunwoody again at Leopardstown for Thursday's meeting there is a possibility that he take over from Jamie Osborne on Master Oats in the Ericsson Chase, although O'Grady is represented in the race by Time For A Run.