LAURINA’S RETURN ON HOLD
CHAMPION HURDLE second favourite Laurina is set to miss Cheltenham’s International Hurdle tomorrow because of the drying ground.
Trainer Willie Mullins (right) said: “In light of the dry forecast we’ve had to have a serious think about running her on her seasonal return.
“We wouldn’t want to risk her on too fast ground so It’s looking unlikely she’ll travel.”
Laurina was unbeaten in four starts over hurdles last season, highlighted by her victory in the Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival by 18 lengths. Summerville Boy is the new 9-4 favourite for tomorrow’s race.
■ MISSED APPROACH is to be aimed at the Randox Health Grand National after finishing sixth in the Becher Chase at Aintree on Saturday. Trainer Warren Greatrex said: “He attacked the fences and showed us that he liked them.
“He always seems to perform well in the spring and the plan will be all around the Grand National now.”