Meade praying for a dry night

Noel Meade is hoping the ground remains on the good side ahead of Champion Hurdle runner-up Harchibald’s run in the totesport Bula Hurdle tomorrow.

The six-year-old will be bidding for a first victory at Cheltenham after failing to score in his two visits to Prestbury Park so far.

Harchibald will have to give at least 4lb to some smart rivals, including Faasel, Penzance and Royal Shakespeare.

“He’s in good form and he’s already at the track,” said Meade.

“We knew we had to give weight away when we decided to come across but we can’t do anything about it and hopefully he will be able to handle it.

“I just hope the weather stays as it is now as he wouldn’t want it too soft.”

Meade is planning a quick reappearance for Harchibald with a Christmas target already pencilled in.

“Hopefully he will go to Leopardstown at Christmas if the ground allows. He’s also in at Sandown so we will see how things work out,” he added.

Faasel looks to be one of his main rivals after Nicky Richards’ charge finished a short head second to Admiral on his seasonal bow.

Penzance, who beat Faasel to take the Triumph Hurdle, was back in third that day but trainer Alan King expects him to have improved for the outing.

“He needed his first run at Haydock,” said the Barbury Castle handler. “He was heavy going into it and had a good blow afterwards but it is a very good race tomorrow and I think it will be asking a lot to expect him to win it.

“I’m happy with him but there are not an awful lot of options for a horse like him.”

A field of nine have been declared with Akilak, Phar Bleu, Westender, Intersky Falcon and Sporazene completing the line-up.