Sizing setback for Leopardstown

Sizing Europe has suffered a slight setback which has put in jeopardy his participation in Monday’s Leopardstown Golf Centre December Festival Hurdle.

The six-year-old is being treated for a bruised foot and a decision on whether he will take his chance in the Grade One feature, for which a field of nine was declared, is likely to be made in the morning.

“He pulled out slightly sore this morning, I’m afraid,” said trainer Henry de Bromhead.

“We’re treating it and hopefully he’ll be OK for tomorrow, but we’re not sure at the moment and we’re going to see how he is in the morning.

“He had a canter up the hill and he is fine on the grass – but he’s not 100% when he’s on a firmer surface.”

Brave Inca, winner of this race two years ago, bids to turn back the clock.

The 2006 Champion Hurdle hero returned from a 19-month absence when second to Catch Me in the Hatton’s Grace at Fairyhouse four weeks ago.

“He is in very good form and came out of his last race well,” said trainer Colm Murphy. “He knew he had had a race but has had four weeks to freshen up and I hope he will run really well.

“He seems in good order and still has the appetite for it. We were a bit stop-start with him before the Hatton’s Grace, but have had a clear run since then.”

Dessie Hughes reports Hardy Eustace to be in fine shape as the dual Champion Hurdle winner bids to win this race for the first time.

The veteran was runner-up to Al Eile 12 months ago, having finished third to Macs Joy in 2004.

“I’m happy with him, the ground should be fine and he should run a good race,” said the County Kildare trainer.

“He looks in good form and we’ve just kept him ticking over since his last run.”