J P McManus looks to have a strong second string to his Smurfit Champion Hurdle bow in the shape of Youlneverwalkalone following the gelding's easy success at Fairyhouse on Sunday. The legendary Irish punter has had his colours carried to victory in the Cheltenham showpiece by Istabraq in the last three years. Istabraq is hot favourite to make it four in March, but Youlneverwalkalone was cut to 16-1 from 25-1 with William Hill as he staked his claim for the right to be in the line-up. Ridden confidently by Conor O'Dwyer, the 5-4 favourite delighted trainer Christy Roche and McManus when proving much too quick for Moscow Flyer from the final flight to take the Ballymore Properties Hatton's Grace Hurdle by three and a half lengths.
"I was in two minds all week about running Youlneverwalkalone because he has had his problems since he ran at Cork six-weeks-ago. It's a relief to see him win like that," said Roche. And now he could make a quick re-appearance at Cheltenham next Saturday in the Bonusprint Bula Hurdle. "I wouldn't be surprised if we ran him back in the Bula Hurdle next weekend. He had plenty of pace but we still don't know what is his ideal trip," Roche added.
McManus confirmed that they were seriously contemplating Cheltenham next Saturday. He said: "We might go there and leave the horse off over Christmas with Cheltenham in mind." Moscow Flyer quickened off a slow enough pace three out to take the lead turning far home where, however, the favourite had cruised up on the outside after Cheltenham Festival winner Sausalito Bay had fallen. Punters suffered a reverse in the Pierse Drinmore Novice Chase as evens favourite Limestone Lad lost his unbeaten record over the larger obstacles when only fourth to Sackville.
Michael Bowe, who does most of the work at home with Limestone Lad for his father Jim, indicated that this hugely popular jumper could go back over hurdles later this month. He said: "We will sit down and talk about it tonight, but it could be a safer option to go back hurdling with him and aim for the Stayers' Hurdle at Cheltenham again as he may have got a fright last time at Punchestown when he made such a bad mistake at the second last." (PA)
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
