DAN SKELTON has shuffled his pack and is to send ace Nube Negra to Punchestown to take on Chacun Pour Soi and Allaho.
The Champion Chase runner-up had been expected to line up against Altior in the Celebration Chase at Sandown this Saturday.
But with brother Harry Skelton’s jockey title all but sewn up, he will now head to Ireland for the Punchestown Champion Chase on Wednesday.
Nube Negra found only Put The Kettle On too good at the Cheltenham Festival and connections will be hoping he can go one better in Ireland.
Skelton said: “There’s not much more to it than just the fact the owner is really quite keen to go and give it a go.
“It’s a big deal over there, it’s a championship race and we’re excited to be a part of it.
“It is worth nearly double what Sandown is, but that’s not the only reason. The ground will probably be a bit softer too.
“He’s been good since Cheltenham, we feel we have him in a very good place.
“We’ll head across on Tuesday morning. Harry is all good to ride and won’t need to quarantine.”
Meanwhile John Gosden will take the wraps off the first of his big names for the summer ahead at Sandown tomorrow.
Palace Pier will take on three rivals in the Group 2 Bet365 Mile with Frankie Dettori in the saddle.
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