Un De Sceaux (Ruby Walsh) winning the Sodexo Clarence House Chase at Ascot last month© Photo Healy Racing
Un De Sceaux s victory at Ascot will have worked wonders for the confidence of both the horse and Ruby Walsh, according to trainer Willie Mullins.
After a fall on his comeback at Leopardstown, a clear round was needed in Berkshire and along with that he delivered a scintillating performance.
He is now a red-hot favourite to follow up his victory in the Arkle last year in the Queen Mother Champion Chase.
"I think for the rider and the horse's self-confidence it was good," Mullins told At The Races.
"He's done that now and hopefully he'll go back and try and do what he did last year. His preparation has gone as well as last year, I'm very happy with him.
"He settles better now which will help I think, he's not as keen as he used to be. Things have got to go right on the day but I think he's fine.
"I think the form says he's the one the rest have to worry about."
He will be joined by stablemate Felix Yonger for whom a trip to Japan has been shelved, for this year at least.
"I don't think he'll go to Japan, just the cost and everything, he might go next year," said Mullins.
"Felix is in good form so we'll let him take his chance.
"I hope he'll get into the money, all right, I think he's in far better form this year than he ever has been."
