Racing:Dermot Weld's dual Galway Plate winner Ansar heads the weights along with Peter Bowen's Yes Sir for this year's William Hill-sponsored showpiece.
The pair appeared among the 46 to stand their ground in Wednesday's feature at the final forfeit stage, and will both shoulder top weight if getting the go-ahead to run.
Ansar had to settle for second last year and warmed up for another crack at the famous race by stretching his legs on the Flat at Killarney two weeks ago.
Yes Sir, who is one of six British-trained possibles, could be joined by stablemate Iron Man, winner of the valuable Summer Plate at Market Rasen last time.
Champion trainer Paul Nicholls could be represented by Hoo La Baloo, runner-up behind Iron Man on his most recent start.
Ansar will be bidding to record an eighth win at the Ballybrit venue if lining up next week, while connections of last year's winner Far From Trouble - trainer Christy Roche and owner JP McManus - could be represented by the well-fancied Cool Running.
Others of note still among the potential starters include Adamant Approach, Conna Castle and First Row.
Tony Kenny, spokesman for William Hill, said: "We're absolutely delighted with the way the race is shaping up at the moment, and it's great to see a strong British presence in the race.
"Conna Castle and Iron Man have been the two best-backed horses in the race, but we expect to see a lot more changes over the next few days."
William Hill Galway Plate, Sponsors bet:
8-1 Ansar, Cool Running, 9-1 Conna Castle, 10-1 Emotional Article, Pacolet, 11-1 Iron Man, Sir Frederick, Ursumman, 12-1 Manilou, 14-1 Bothar Na, On The Other Hand, On The Net, Yes Sir, 16-1 Adamant Approach, Knight Legend, 20-1 Bar.