Ground could dictate Ash target

Connections have yet to make a decision on which race Ashkazar runs in at the Cheltenham Festival.

The former smart Flat performer waltzed away with the competitive Imperial Cup at Sandown on Saturday, a race the Pipe family are beginning to monopolise.

The four-year-old holds entries in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle, the Triumph Hurdle and the Fred Winter Juvenile Novices’ Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham.

A victory in either of those races would land connections a £75,000 bonus after the weekend’s success, one which Pipe won 12 months ago with Gaspara.

“It was a very good performance but we haven’t made a decision yet,” said Pipe.

“He ate up last night and I’ll be having a word with David Johnson (owner) later on today and we’ll make a decision after that.

“He wouldn’t want the ground bottomless. I know the forecast is really bad for the next couple of days and I suppose it depends on how much falls on the track.

“He’s a laid-back character who always saves a bit for himself and he went straight for his grub last night.

“He’s been out in the paddock this morning, had a pick of some grass and touch wood he seems fine.”

Ashkazar is 2-1 favourite with William Hill for the Fred Winter and 9-2 for the Triumph Hurdle.