Lame Celestial out of World hurdle

Celestial Wave will not travel across the Irish Sea to tackle the Ladbrokes World Hurdle after suffering a late setback.

Adrian Maguire’s improving mare had been quietly fancied to play a major role in the staying hurdlers’ championship after landing her last three starts in Graded company.

“She’s out of the World Hurdle as unfortunately she got cast in her box this morning and she’s just lame behind,” said Maguire.

“It’s a bit of a blow for sure as we just fancied her, but it could have been worse.”

At this early stage, Maguire is unsure how long the injury will take to heal.

However, the County Cork-based handler has not yet given up hope of his stable star landing a major prize this season.

“I honestly don’t know how long she will miss after this but we could possibly be looking to Punchestown with her – we’ll have to wait and see,” he added.

Ladbrokes World Hurdle

Coral bet: 5-2 Black Jack Ketchum, 3-1 Inglis Drever, 9-2 Mighty Man, 11-2 Blazing Bailey, 9-1 Kasbah Bliss, 12-1 Labelthou, 14-1 Flight Leader, Temoin, 16-1 Lough Derg, United, 20-1 Lord Sam, Millenium Royal, Overstrand, 33-1 bar