Vinny handed World target

Cousin Vinny will revert to timber when he bids for a second triumph at the Cheltenham Festival next month.

The 2008 Champion Bumper hero has found life tough in three outings over fences this season, twice being beaten at odds-on and most recently finishing fifth to stablemate Citizen Vic in the Dr P.J Moriarty Chase at Leopardstown.

Trainer Willie Mullins, speaking in his diary on www.goracing.ie, said: “His fencing is too deliberate, so I’m going to call a halt to his chasing career for now.

“He may have another go at it next season, but the World Hurdle will be his March target – he should at least be able to hold his own in staying hurdle company.”

Mullins’ RSA Chase winner Cooldine was just touched off in the Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup last weekend, and is on course for a return to Cheltenham in the Gold Cup.

Mullins said: “Cooldine certainly showed his old sparkle and was beaten by a horse that is bang in form in Joncol.

“He should keep improving now in the run up to Cheltenham. Fionnegas, who I thought ran a career-best to be second to Dunguib, will also head to Cheltenham for one of the novice hurdles.”