HENDO’S HAPPY

Champion Hurdle hopes work on all-weather

NICKY HENDERSON left Kempton a happy man yesterday after three of his Unibet Champion Hurdle contenders, Pentland Hills, Fusil Raffles and Verdana Blue completed racecourse gallops.

The three Cheltenham hopefuls were among 13 horses sent to work at the Sunbury track in the morning, in what has become an annual preFestival tradition for the Seven Barrows handler.

After working over a lap and a half on the allweather track, Henderson, right, said: “It was good and they all did what they had to. It just puts an edge on them. I was happy with Pentland and Verdana and Fusil was all right.

“We know what the horses work like. One or two had a blow, that was fine and you take it that will put them right, but a lot haven’t run for a bit and that is why they are here.”

One Henderson contender not heading to the Festival is Glynn, who was as short as 14-1 for the Ballymore Novices’ Hurdle.

Henderson said: “He has only had one run and is a baby. I would like to find a nice little race, finish on a good note and put him away for next year. “

The British Horseracing Authority is prepared to act — if the need arises — regarding any potential coronavirus impact on fixtures.

An industry steering group has been established to consider the implications of the virus.

Some international sporting events have been postponed, principally in Asia, but the virus is becoming more prevalent in Europe.

In Italy, extra precautions have been implemented, with six Serie A football matches taking place behind closed doors.