Eddie Harty has described his 3/1 market leader Captain Cee Bee as “the best one in” for the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy at the Cheltenham Festival.

The talented nine-year-old won the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle two years ago but missed the Festival last year because of injury.

He will cross swords again with great rival Sizing Europe for the two-mile novices’ championship but Harty has stressed he would not swap his charge for any of the other dangers.

Long Run, Somersby and Riverside Theatre (9/1 ante-post) are also expected to run big races but Harty is convinced Captain Cee Bee is the one they all have to beat.

“I think he’s probably the best one in it but it’s racing and it’s competition and that’s what it is all about,” said the trainer.

He added on At The Races: “I thought Somersby was quite impressive at Sandown, he jumped well. Riverside Theatre was impressive at Kempton at Christmas but I wouldn’t swap my horse for any of them in it.”

Don’t miss your chance to check out all ante-post markets, including the Irish Independent Arkle Challenge Trophy, on totesport.com.