Roche finds reason for Butterfly’s poor run
The imposing mare lagged well behind in the race won by Mariah Rollins, and was well out of contention when pulled up after the second last by Conor O’Dwyer.
Roche and his team were initially mystified by the disappointing show as she scoped cleanly when tested after the race.
However, further tests taken by vet John Stafford have revealed that Like-A-Butterfly is suffering from a blood disorder and the trainer feels that is the reason she performed way below expectations.
“I would not now rule out running her in the Irish Arkle at Leopardstown (January 23),” commented a relieved Roche.
Meanwhile, Mouse Morris, fresh from landing a major gamble with Keepatem in the Paddy Power at Leopardstown on Monday, had an upbeat bulletin on stable star, War Of Attrition.
Runner-up behind Brave Inca in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, and successful over fences first time out at Thurles in November, War Of Attrition has been on the easy-list of late with an injury to a splint-bone.
“He is back riding out, but whether he will be ready for Cheltenham remains to be seen.
“We won’t be rushing him and he will tell us when he’s ready,” said Morris.
Tom Taaffe has confirmed that Kicking King will go straight to Cheltenham, following his scintillating performance which saw him take the King George at Kempton on St Stephen’s Day.
“He is in cracking form, he’s jumping out of his skin,” said Taaffe.
