Gold Cup next for War of Attrition
Speaking at Thurles yesterday, trainer Mouse Morris said: “The entries for the Hennessy at Leopardstown next month closed this week and I didn't even put War Of Attrition in the race.
“He's in good order right now and won't run again before Cheltenham. It is just a question of getting him there.
“I thought it was a great effort in the Lexus, considering he was a sick horse only two weeks earlier. He is right back to his best now and I am hoping for some good ground at Cheltenham.”'
Morris confirmed that Fota Island is set to take on take on Central House in the Grade Two Normans Grove 'Chase at Fairyhouse on Sunday.
“As long as the ground isn't too soft he will run and Tony McCoy will ride”', said Morris.
Hopes the high class Asian Maze would take on Solerina at Naas tomorrow have been dashed, however. She went from strength to strength last season and may yet emerge as a live Cheltenham Ladbrokes World Hurdle candidate.
Commented trainer Tom Mullins: “Her blood wasn't right this morning and she won't be going to Naas. She will have a few days off now and might, but only might, head to Gowran Park next Thursday.”'
Willie Mullins is favouring Fairyhouse on Sunday, rather than Naas tomorrow, for Cheltenham Royal and SunAlliance Novices 'Chase prospect Our Ben.
The Naas contest is a Grade Two over three miles, while the Fairyhouse race is a beginners 'chase over two miles and a furlong.
