Sunday tips: Harry Allwood's three best bets

Odds: 15-8.

This nine-year-old produced some high-class form over hurdles two seasons ago, which included a Grade One win in the Lawlor's Of Naas Novice Hurdle, despite looking a work in progress before he was off the track for over 600 days.

However, that absence clearly didn't hinder his ability as he created a strong impression on his return, and chasing debut, at in January where he jumped well en route to an easy victory. 

The bounce factor may have been the reason for his below-par performance at the Dublin Racing Festival next time out where he was quickly brushed aside, but made amends in style when making the most of a good opportunity at Navan when last seen. 

He stays further that two miles, so stepping back up to 2m4f should suit here and, more importantly, he should be able to lead as, although stablemate Ile Atlantique made virtually all on his first two outings over fences, I doubt they will take each other on out in front.

Champ Kiely's jumping has been a big asset so far over fences and if he gets into a good rhythm, then I expect he will take plenty of beating. It is also noteworthy he is the choice of Paul Townend over the other two Willie Mullins-trained contenders, and any further ease in the ground will not hinder him.

Odds: 2-1.

I strongly fancied Absurde for the William Hill County Handicap Hurdle last time out and although he managed to finish third, I don't think he was quite at his best there.

In hindsight, his absence beforehand and the fact Paul Townend chose to ride stablemate Kargese were probably clues that he was not going to produce his best, and Mullins also voiced his concerns beforehand that Absurde usually strips fitter for an outing.

His dual-purpose performer finished a close fifth in the Melbourne Cup in November, his final outing ahead of the Cheltenham Festival, and Absurde had a couple of recent runs under his belt before winning last year's County Hurdle in impressive style. He was held up off a steady pace that day before cruising into contention on unfavourable ground conditions, and was value for more than the winning margin suggested in what looked a strong renewal of the 2m1f-contest.

It is therefore wise to believe Absurde will take a step forward now, and I still think he could be competitive in graded company over hurdles given his ability on the Flat. 

Harry Cobden teamed up with Mullins to win the Coral Scottish last week, and looks a positive jockey booking, plus this track and ground should suit the selection who I believe will be capable of outclassing his rivals here. 

Odds: 5-1.

Mr Freedom has produced some of his best efforts at this track and off a rating of 124, he's certainly handicapped to go close again.

Sheena West's charge has been a credit to connections over the past few seasons having produced consistent performances on the Flat and over Jumps, and finished second in last year's Sussex Champion Hurdle off a 4lb lower mark. He also finished a close third on his sole start over this course and distance last season in a similar contest to this.

After a winter break, the six-year-old caught the eye when third at Bangor on his return in March where he travelled with his usual zest before gradually fading. The lack of a recent appeared to take a toll late on, and that should have blown the cobwebs away. 

The ground should also be in his favour and another big run is on the cards from this course specialist. I'll nominate him as the nap of the day on Sunday.