Kalderon faces tough Cuan challenge
Tom Hogan’s runner, a smart performer on the Flat, is unbeaten in two runs over hurdles at Listowel and Tipperary and is a 25-1 chance for his Festival target.
However, he met with a setback after the latter victory nearly six weeks ago and his eight rivals today include Paul Nolan’s Cuan Na Grai, who is ante-post favourite at around 10-1 for the Supreme Novices’.
“He had a little setback after he won at Tipperary. He got a small prick behind his knee which got infected. He was stood for about a week but he’s been working well for the past 10 days,” said Hogan.
“He’s in as good a condition as he was going to Tipperary so we’ll have a go. I plan to give him a break after he’s run in Royal Bond Novice Hurdle at Fairyhouse early next month.
“We also want to give him as much experience as we can before his main target in the spring. His owner has his eye on the Supreme Novices’ at the Festival so the more races we can fit in the better.
“He’s also a good horse on the Flat up to a mile and a quarter and broke the track record when he won a Listed race over a mile at Tralee in September.
“The ground tomorrow will be better than he’s had over jumps so far. Going on the softish side of good should be perfect.”
As well as Cuan Na Grai, the nine-strong field includes fellow Irish raiders War General and Mill House Girl.
Of the English contingent, Michael Chapman reported Orpen Wide ready for the task ahead following his win at Ascot two weeks ago.
“He’s in good form and won well at Ascot last time.
“The going will be no problem – he acts on any ground,” said the Market Rasen trainer.
“Richard Johnson rides. He’s a good jockey and has won on him before.”
Moon Over Miami was beaten five lengths into second place by Orpen Wide at Ascot and the former’s trainer Charlie Mann is hoping there will be a strong gallop to help his cause.
