Convincing on course

Convincing will head straight for the JCB Triumph Hurdle after missing an intended engagement at Fairyhouse on Saturday.

John Murphy’s juvenile has won three of his four starts over hurdles this season, with his only defeat coming behind current Triumph favourite Lounaos on Boxing Day when he was found to be off colour.

Despite stepping on a stone on Friday afternoon, Murphy has revealed he will not be held up in his work and it is now all systems go for Cheltenham.

“He’s fine now. We are just praying for some dry weather and a quick recovery,” he said.

“He won’t be held up at all, he’ll be cantering again on Tuesday, there’s not a bother on him. He will head straight to Cheltenham now as it is getting too close to get another run into him.

“I didn’t want to take any chances on Saturday, especially as the ground was brutal and we were giving everybody 9lb.

“Financial Reward ran a sound enough race which gives the form of his last win a solid look. He has had four runs over hurdles now so he is not short on experience. Believe me, the best is yet to come from him.”

Convincing is a 20-1 chance with Bet Direct for the JCB Triumph Hurdle.