Peddlers Cross team on Haydock weather watch
Last season’s Champion Hurdle runner-up has made a fine start to his career over fences, winning twice at Bangor without being troubled.
McCain still hopes to run his stable-star for a third time this weekend – in the Maxilead Metals Supports The Injured Jockeys Fund Novices’ Chase – but is unsure whether a run in heavy ground would be the right thing to do at this stage of the season.
“He’s in great nick and Jason (Maguire) schooled him this morning and everything went grand,” said McCain.
“The intention is for him to run at the moment, but the ground is heavy and there is more rain forecast, so I couldn’t say it’s a 100% certain he’ll go.
“We want to run him but we have to think whether there is anything to be gained.
“It’s good we’ve got a couple of runs into him already. We’d like to get a third run, but we’ll just play it by ear.”
lBIG BUCK’S features among nine entries for the Lough Derg Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday.
The Paul Nicholls-trained three-time World Hurdle winner secured his 13th successive victory in the Long Distance Hurdle at Newbury on his seasonal reappearance and now goes for hat-trick in this Grade One event.
Nicholls and owner Andy Stewart could also be represented by Celestial Halo, while the champion trainer also has Five Dream engaged.
Impressive Haydock Park winner Dynaste could step up in grade for David Pipe.
Restless Harry could return to hurdles after being beaten on his first two starts over fences, while talented mare Sparky May could represent young trainer Keiran Burke.
Cross Kennon, Pettifour and Rick complete the possibles.
Robin Dickin is looking forward to seeing Restless Harry line up this weekend.
“We’re not really having a change of tack. It’s mega prize-money and we thought it was worth a go,” said Dickin.
ANTE-POST favourite Prospect Wells heads a field of 21 confirmed for the Ladbroke Handicap Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday.
The Graham Wylie-owned novice, trained by Paul Nicholls, has taken to hurdling well, winning two of his three starts.
Nicholls is also responsible for the top weight Brampour and Tonic Mellysse.
Edward O’Grady’s Sailors Warn and the Willie Mullins-trained Tawaagg are the two Irish representatives left.
Brian Ellison could run Marsh Warbler or Abergavenny while Imperial Cup winner Alarazi is also a possible.
Nicky Henderson, who has such a good record in the race, has left in Gibb River and Rajdhani Express while Donald McCain could run Desert Cry.
