High hopes for Wanango’s Annual bid

CONNECTIONS of Wanango are happy with the progress the seven-year-old has made as the countdown to Cheltenham gathers pace.

The JP McManus-owned gelding is as short as 6-1 favourite with Betfred for the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup after posting an impressive warm-up success at Uttoxeter last month.

Although he also has the option of returning to timber for the Vincent O’Brien County Handicap Hurdle, the extended two-mile handicap chase is currently the favoured option.

“It looks like we’ll go for the Grand Annual at the moment and he’s been fine since his win at Uttoxeter,” reported Fozzy Stack, son and assistant to trainer Tommy.

“He is also entered in the County Hurdle so we’ll just see how it goes and see what is likely to turn up nearer the time.

“He was impressive last time and he jumped really well that day. He’s quite a big horse and it’s just taken a while for him to grow into himself.”

The majority of bookmakers have the Nicky Henderson-trained My Petra narrowly in front of Wanango at the head of the ante-post Grand Annual markets.

Henderson’s mare is the 6-1 favourite with Paddy Power and Coral.