Racing: O'Brien's Frontier reaches new levels in Triumph

Rainbow Frontier became the new favourite for the Triumph Hurdle with William Hill after retaining his unbeaten record over hurdles at Leopardstown yesterday.

The Aidan O'Brien-trained performer showed battling qualities to give weight and a beating to eight rivals in the Denny Juvenile Hurdle. Second home, receiving 5lb, was the Christy Roche-trained Khaiarabar, who had occupied top spot in Triumph betting. He is now out to 16-1, from 12-1, while Rainbow Frontier is 12-1, from 25-1. Rainwatch, the 14-1 second favourite for the Triumph, runs at Chepstow today.

"Now it is on to Cheltenham with just one run in the meantime for Rainbow Frontier," O'Brien said.

Noel Meade's Dardjini also made a significant impact when winning the Grade One Denny Gold Medal Novice Chase and will return to Leopardstown for the Arkle Cup after which a decision will be made about challenging for the Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham.

"He has always schooled well since we tried him over fences," Meade said. "I just couldn't get him right last winter, though he was third in the Irish Champion Hurdle."

Triumph Hurdle (Cheltenham, 19 March: William Hill: 12-1 Rainbow Frontier, 14-1 Rainwatch, 16-1 Buddy Marvel, Khairabar, Sound Appeal, 20-1 Real Estate, Supply And Demand, Vent D'Aout, 25-1 The French Furze.