Ivoire takes Pardubicka plunge

Ferdy Murphy believes Ivoire De Beaulieu will be hard to beat in Sunday’s Velka Pardubicka as he bids to build on last year’s fourth-placed finish.

The veteran has been campaigned almost solely over cross-country courses since joining the West Witton handler, but his form tailed off somewhat towards the end of last season.

Murphy reports the 12-year-old to have safely arrived in the Czech Republic and insists he can improve on last year’s effort.

“Ivoire De Beaulieu arrived at the track on Wednesday and he has travelled over absolutely fantastically,” said the trainer.

“He ran a blinder to finish fourth last year and I think his preparation has gone much better this time around – he is a lot straighter.

“We are very hopeful of a big run.”