Ross River likely to sidestep Cheltenham

ROSS RIVER, a faller when sent off the well-backed 5-1 favourite for the Racing Post Plate last season, is unlikely to bid for redemption this time around.

The gelding also holds an alternative Cheltenham Festival engagement in the Coral Cup, but is unlikely to take in that contest either as connections consider other options.

After rising considerably in the weights last year, Ross River was well beaten when reverting to hurdling in the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown in January and has enjoyed a break since.