Ballycassidy ready for Newbury challenge

Ballycassidy is reported to be in fine shape ahead of a tilt at Saturday’s Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup at Newbury.

The nine-year-old is refreshed from a holiday after he finished third to Tango Royal in the Summer Plate at Market Rasen in July.

“He has had a break since his three runs in the summer and is in good form,” said Haverfordwest trainer Peter Bowen.

“Richard Johnson rides him and he’s won around Newbury. The faster he ground the better for him.”

Ballycassidy is generally available at 33-1 for the £125,000 handicap chase over an extended three and a quarter miles.