Ruby happy as Hurricane Fly champing at the bit
The nine-year-old won the race in 2011 but surrendered his crown 12 months ago, finishing a disappointing third to Rock On Ruby and Overturn.
But speaking in a Q and A session with Irish Examiner racing correspondent Pat Keane at the Imperial Hotel in Cork yesterday, Walsh was confident Hurricane Fly will make amends at the Festival.
“Hurricane Fly had a much different preparation this season. He’s a way deeper fitness than he had last year. We’re very happy with him so we’ll be hoping he can win,” Walsh said.
Asked if he felt Hurricane Fly was showing the same sparkle as two years ago, Walsh said: “I think he is. He’s much more relaxed as he got a bit older. I think he’s form is rock solid. I’m happy with him and I can’t wait to ride him.”
Reflecting on last year’s year lacklustre showing, Walsh said: “He came in with a few niggly problems. It’s like somebody missing pre-season. He was always playing catch up. You’re trying to pack six months of work into three and it took its toll. He was just a flat horse at Cheltenham.”
Walsh had the option of riding either Hurricane Fly or second favourite Zarkandar in the Champion Hurdle and while he concedes he could be proven wrong he said sticking with the 14 times Grade 1 winner was not a difficult decision.
“I won a Champion Hurdle on Hurricane Fly, Zarkander’s definitely improving and has a chance but I just think Hurricane Fly is rock solid at the minute. He kind of has everything. But I’ve got it wrong in the past and I’ll get it wrong again.”
