Monday verdict over lost Cheltenham races

The British Horseracing Authority are likely to decide on Monday whether to reschedule any of the races lost after Cheltenham’s high-profile meeting was abandoned due to waterlogging on Saturday.

Several trainers are reported to be keen on saving the most valuable contest on the seven-race card, the Boylesports.com International Hurdle.

The meeting at Ascot next Saturday has been mentioned as a possible venue for the Grade Two heat that had attracted Champion Hurdle winner Katchit among a high-quality field.

“A final decision will not be taken until tomorrow whether to reschedule the races from Cheltenham,” said BHA PR manager Paul Struthers.

Connections of the Nicky Henderson-trained Binocular, who was the probable favourite for the original race, have also urged the parties to switch the International Hurdle to the Berkshire course.

“If the race is on Saturday at Ascot he will go there,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to the four-year-old’s owner JP McManus.

“It would be brilliant if they could get it on there.

“It’s a top-class race so let’s hope they can get it together.”