Horse Racing: Istabraq betting gains momentum

Support for Istabraq’s historic tilt at a fourth Smurfit Champion Hurdle crown appears to be gathering momentum.

Aidan O’Brien’s star has been friendless in recent weeks in the ante-post market on the Cheltenham showpiece but William Hill reported good support for the 10-year-old today.

‘‘A cash client on the South Coast had a £6000 bet at 9-4 on Tuesday,’’ said spokesman David Hood. ‘‘And that has been followed up on Wednesday a by a flurry of four-figure wagers.

‘‘We are now back to 7-4 from 2-1.’’

Smurfit Champion Hurdle, William Hill betting: 7-4 Istabraq (from 2-1), 10-3 Valiramix (from 3-1), 5-1 Landing Light (from 9-2), Ned Kelly, 12-1 Bilboa, 14-1 Marble Arch, 20-1 Bar.