Hardy at Ascot

Dual Champion Hurdle hero Hardy Eustace travels to Ascot tomorrow rather than take on his compatriot Brave Inca in his native Ireland on Sunday.

Dessie Hughes has chosen what looks an easier option for the nine-year-old by sending him over for the Coral Ascot Hurdle as opposed to taking a shorter journey from his Kildare base for the Maplewood Developments Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown.

“He runs at Ascot as it looks an easier race than the Morgiana and he gets weight from most of them,” the trainer said.

“He’s ready to run and he’s in good form.”

Hardy Eustace warmed up for the Grade Two contest over two miles, three and a half furlongs with a run on the Flat at the Curragh four weeks ago.

His seven rivals include Mighty Man, who floored his Ladbrokes World Hurdle conqueror My Way De Solzen in the Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree.

A classy field also includes No Refuge, Desert Quest, Fire Dragon and Self Defense.