Starluck may be aimed at Aintree

IMPORTANT Cheltenham clues were promised at Huntingdon yesterday but after mixed messages from the connections of Starluck and a defeat for Minella Class, punters were rather left scratching their heads.

Starluck (4-9 favourite) was sent chasing late in the season after just coming up short against the very best over hurdles.

Trainer Alan Fleming had touted a tilt at the Arkle if all went to plan in the Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide Novices’ Chase and while that went without a hiccup, Aintree was instead mooted as a possibility.

Tony McCoy took over from Timmy Murphy in the saddle with the latter due to ride ante-post Arkle fancy Ghizao next month.

While the champion jockey was impressed with Starluck’s bravery, he gave off the impression the championship event would come too soon for him, and Fleming revealed an alternative route towards the end of the season after his six-length win.

“I’m pleased enough with that. He’s very brave and even though there’s no doubt he lacks a bit of size, he’s not frightened and has loads of bottle,” said McCoy.

He certainly has the engine for an Arkle but I said to Alan that I’m not sure it would be fair on him to go straight to the Arkle and we’ve got to do what’s right for the horse.”

Minella Class found life difficult trying to give James Ewart’s Aikman 8lb.

Sent off at 16-1, the Scottish raider made all under Harry Haynes and earned himself a crack at the big meeting.

Barry Geraghty could offer up no excuses for Nicky Henderson’s Minella Class. He said: “He travelled and jumped nicely but emptied after the last. It’s horrible ground but there’s no obvious excuse.”