Moscow flying for Champion double
The imposing gelding will be attempting a Festival hat-trick, having landed the Arkle two years ago.
Harrington commented: “It must be 10-1 just to get a horse here three years running, so I’m very happy he’s made it.
“I hadn’t seen him since he left home and I’m delighted with the shape he is in. Barry rode him out on the track.
“From the time he won last year he has been geared towards a repeat. I think there’s less pressure this time round, he was everyone’s banker a year ago. He’s done everything I have wanted this season and I think he is now a bit stronger.”
Geraghty said: “I think it is hard to look beyond the big two (Moscow Flyer and Azertyuiop) and I am more than happy my fellow has the guns.”
Harrington will not, however, be saddling either Macs Jor or Green Belt Flyer in tomorrow’s County Hurdle because top weight, Rigmarole, has been declared under the new 48-hour declaration system.
“I think someone has made a serious error with the handicaps. The County is going to be a very top-heavy affair, with a lot of horses running from out of the handicap.
“I am not going to run my two from out of the weights, there are a lot of opportunities for them in Ireland.”
Meanwhile, leading fancy Rosslea will miss the 134th Year of National Hunt Challenge Cup today.
Henrietta Knight’s charge has some smart novice form to his name this season, and chased home Our Vic at Ascot on his latest start.
He was considered an ideal type for the four-mile contest but the Wantage trainer said: “He’s got a bruised foot. It’s not serious but it will keep him out for a week or so.”
A total of 24 horses go to post, with a strong Irish challenge headed by Satco Express and Boneyarrow.
