Triple Champion Hurdler Istabraq looked fit and well when completing the main part of his Cheltenham build up at Leopardstown racecourse this afternoon. Brought to the Dublin track by trainer Aidan O'Brien, the 10-year-old jumped two hurdles and worked over 10 furlongs on the Flat. The Leopardstown course was very heavy following almost two inches of rain in the past five days.
According to Istabraq's regular jockey Charlie Swan he was pleased the way the horse jumped two practice hurdles in the early stages of the workout. Istabraq worked with his regular galloping companion Darapour and he led his stablemate over the two hurdles and for most of the exercise.
The triple Smurfit Champion Hurdle winner has had just one race this season at Leopardstown in December, but remains the 15-8 favourite with Coral for the Cheltenham showpiece on Tuesday, March 12.
Filed by Johnny Proby
