TERRMINATOR
Henderson star can destroy Scilly Isles rivals
FAUGHEEN is the headline act as the inaugural €1.5m Dublin Racing Festival gets under way at Leopardstown today.
But Willie Mullins’ star — once dubbed ‘the machine’ — has to prove all his parts are in working order in the Irish Champion Hurdle, one of seven Grade 1 races over the two-day fixture.
Paul Townend, on board for the 10-year-old’s comeback win in Punchestown’s Morgiana Hurdle in November — but also Faugheen’s flop when pulled up in the Ryanair Hurdle at Leopardstown in December — admitted: “He has to bounce back.
“But he’s been fine since he disappointed at Christmas. Hopefully he can put in a performance like he did at Punchestown.”
With Ruby Walsh sidelined with a broken leg, Townend has the choice of Mullins’ awesome squad over the weekend, including Yorkhill, Footpad, Sharjah and Djakadam.
“It’s an exciting time, especially for me with Ruby being out,” added the 27-year-old. “There’s a huge amount of prize money and I’m sure it will be a success. I’m really looking forward to it.” TERREFORT can bridge the gap from handicaps to the top level by claiming the Grade 1 Betfred TV Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase (2.25, ITV4) at Sandown today. The French import created quite a stir on his debut for Nicky Henderson when landing a novice handicap chase at Huntingdon by 10 lengths. The handicapper has raised Terrefort 14lb, so Henderson must look to loftier company.
“How you could put him up a stone is anyone’s guess – it was an appalling race,” said the trainer.
“He was visually impressive, but they were a bad lot at Huntingdon. I just hope the handicapper’s right!” Henderson (inset) need have no concerns as Terrefort is well worth his place at the top table. Daryl Jacob’s mount is already the best horse in the five-runner field, and, having just turned five, the grey has the scope to continue improving.