TONY SWEENEYgives his tips for today's races.

1.30 Jewson Novices Handicap Chase

After a blazing eight-timer on the first two days, Irish trainers may struggle this afternoon. However, I could see the so far out-of-luck Tony Martin team making a strong bid with Northern Alliance. Martin’s high opinion of the horse was advertised when he included Tuesday’s Arkle Challenge Trophy in his four Cheltenham engagements. Given that this keen form student so often goes for gambles with horses featuring near the bottom of the weights, it is a real pointer that he has been happy to have a go with Northern Alliance in a contest in which he gives weight to all bar one of his 19 rivals.

Selection:Northern Alliance (ew).

2.40 Ryanair Chase

French-breds have been restricted to four winners so far, but their main firepower has been directed at the best quality events, and this afternoon they can continue this trend by winning both Grade One races. “Choc” Thornton has delivered in style at past Festivals, and his mount Voy Por Ustedes is the sort of star performer for whom the Ryanair Chase was specially designed. His third placing to Kauto Star in the King George VI Chase at Christmas showed that three miles was too far, but over two miles last season he trounced Master Minded at Liverpool. Last time out he beat Gwanako at Ascot to win by 14l.

Selection:Voy Por Ustedes (Nap)

3.20 Ladbrokes World Hurdle

French trainer François Doumen has shown in the past that, given the right material, he is capable of winning Group One flat races worldwide. For JP McManus he won this World Hurdle twice with Barracouda. In 2008, his Kasbah Bliss came within a length of holding off Inglis Drever who was winning the race for the third time. If Kasbah Bliss justifies favouritism it will bring his win and place hurdle earnings over the €540,400 mark.

Selection:Kasbah Bliss.