He settled well, he jumped well and he put the race to bed well. While I won’t be backing him for a Grade 1 novice chase at this stage, IL ETAIT TEMPS was impressive in the Beginners Chase at Thurles on Thursday. Without further ado, it’s time to take a look at some of the standout performers over the past week… Some horses thrived and backed up their Festival credentials while there were a couple of major disappointments. While Newcastle succumbed to the frost on Saturday, there was racing action at Newbury and Fairyhouse and jumps fans were treated to several impressive performances that have changed the complexion of Cheltenham Festival ante-post markets. The 17-time Irish Champion Trainer is really starting to motor. Right? While the majority of us were scrambling to find a last-minute advent calendar, the Closutton maestro was landing a five-timer at Thurles.

This is Willie Mullins’ world – we’re all just living in it.

Despite the freezing weather, the action on the racecourse was as hot as ever this past week. With ground staff up and down the land working wonders to get racing on, there is plenty for our man to sink his teeth into.

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