Harchibald set to sidestep Morgiana
Speaking at Clonmel yesterday, Meade said: “The ground is going to be far too testing for Harchibald and he will go for the Fighting Fifth at Newcastle the following Saturday.
“I'm told the ground over there is good, good to firm, at the moment and that would be ideal.
“I have decided Iktitaf will definitely run in the Morgiana.”
The Fighting Fifth is shaping up to be some contest, with Jessica Harrington planning to start Champion Hurdle runner-up Macs Joy's season in that race as well.
Meade also confirmed that his exciting prospect Mattock Ranger will have his second outing over fences in the Irish Field Chase at Punchestown tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Colm Murphy was waiting on news from Tony McCoy last night as to whether he will be able to team up with Brave Inca in the Morgiana.
McCoy and Brave Inca have developed into a cracking combination, but there remains the possibility the British champion could be claimed to partner Clan Royal for J P McManus at Aintree.
Commented Murphy: “I'll be a little surprised if Tony rides him. But I'm not worried, it's a long season.
“If Tony can't ride then we will sit down and have a meeting and use the best available.”
Michael Hourigan confirmed Beef Or Salmon a traveller for the Betfair Chase at Haydock tomorrow.
Andrew McNamara, currently on the easy-list, having suffered concussion and a shoulder injury at Thurles eight days ago, will be back to renew the partnership
The pair recently teamed up to beat War Of Attrition in the James Nicholson at Down Royal. McNamara will be aboard Cheltenham two mile Champion Chase hero Newmill in the Morgiana Hurdle.
