Horse racing: Punters moving back in for Istabraq

Istabraq has been a constant drifter in the ante-post exchanges on the Smurfit Champion Hurdle in recent weeks but that may be about to change.

Aidan O’Brien’s superstar, chasing a record fourth hurdling crown at Cheltenham in March, was the subject of support with the Tote.

‘‘For the first time in this season’s ante-post market we’ve seen punters begin to nibble at the price on offer,’’ said Tote spokesman, Jeremy Scott.

‘‘Istabraq does not have to prove what a great horse he has been, but with question marks still lingering concerning his ability to take a fourth Champion Hurdle crown, punters have been reluctant to touch him in the betting up until now.

‘‘After a period in which he’s done nothing but drift in the market, he now looks to have found his market price, having stabilised at 2-1, although if interest continues we could see his price cut for the first time this season.’’