Aintree going crucial to Long Run’s Bowl bid

NICKY Henderson fully intends to run Cheltenham Gold Cup hero Long Run at Aintree next week – provided ground conditions are in his favour.

The six-year-old produced a superb performance to get the better of old warriors Denman and Kauto Star in the Prestbury Park blue riband, and connections are keen to see him sign off his campaign in the totesport Bowl on Thursday week.

But Henderson will not risk his charge if he feels conditions are unsuitably fast and he has also confirmed if he does not go to Aintree, he will be heading back to Robert Waley-Cohen’s stud for his summer break.