RACING:IT IS 10 years since This Is Serious won the Betfred Eider Chase for Ireland but Portrait King will attempt to bridge that gap in today's Newcastle marathon.

The Maurice Phelan-trained stayer won his last start at Punchestown three weeks ago but faces four miles-plus for the first time in his career. Co Kildare-based Phelan doesn’t see that as a problem. “He’s not gone four miles before, but I’d be confident he will stay and I’d be happy enough with the ground,” he said yesterday. “The trip will take some getting, but it’s a galloping track and that will suit. He’s still only seven so hopefully there’s more improvement to come.”

Portrait King has been rated a 6 to 1 ante-post favourite in some lists for the Eider this week.

– BRIAN O’CONNOR