Binocular's just Champion

Binocular is reported to be in good form as his preparation for the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham steps up a gear.

A scintillating victory in the rearranged Boylesports.com International at Ascot last month saw the Nicky Henderson-trained gelding’s odds for the feature on day one of the Festival on March 10 plummet to as low as even-money favourite.

“Nicky is just starting to build up his work back at the minute and he is quite happy with him,” said Frank Berry, racing manager to owner JP McManus.

“Obviously it’s the Champion Hurdle next.

“It’s a bit away but we just hope he gets there in one piece and in good form.

“He did win nicely at Ascot and you couldn’t be more pleased with him.”