DAN’S THE MAN
Coleman rides Champion Hurdler in Fighting Fifth
AIDAN COLEMAN takes over the reins from retired jockey Barry Geraghty when reigning Champion Hurdler Epatante returns to action in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle on Saturday week.
Epatante joined stablemates Altior and Santini in a gallop at Newbury racecourse.
And Nicky Henderson was fired up with enthusiasm asm about running his stars rs in the coming months.
“Epatante is working very well, I was pleased with her this morning,” said Henderson. “Aidan
( right) rides her at Newcastle, that’s part of the plan.
“JP ( McManus owner) has no retained jockey in this country, and, of course, we have Buveur D’Air, they will both meet in March.” Last season Epatante gave Henderson a record eighth victory in the Champion Hurdle and he feels there is more improvement to com come.
As for the dual C Champion Hurdle w winner Buveur D D’Air, last seen w when injuring him himself at Newcastle a year ago, Henderson has no particular targets for his return but is pleased with his homework.
After a disastrous season last term, Henderson believes Altior can now find his mojo.
“He’s heading for the Tingle Creek at Sandown next month,” said the champion trainer. “His schooling at home is frightening as he’s so quick.”
If Henderson did not have such a stranglehold on the Champion Hurdle, Shiskin would be heading down the same route.
But last season’s Supreme Hurdle winner now embarks on a chasing career.
“He goes to Kempton on Monday, the race we’ve used in the past for Altior,” explained Henderson.