Annie Power aimed at OLBG Mares' Hurdle again
Monday 12 October 2015 17:24, UK
Annie Power could start off her season in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse on November 29 before again being geared towards the OLBG Mares' Hurdle at Cheltenham in March.
The Willie Mullins-trained seven-year-old took a dramatic last-flight fall in the same race at Prestbury Park last term, with the Grade One prize at her mercy, before returning none the worse to win the Mares Champion Hurdle at Punchestown.
Speaking to OLBG, Mullins said: "She looks great and I may start her off in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse at the end of November. All being well we'll then aim her at the OLBG mares' race at the Festival."
Another Mullins runner, Glens Melody, was able to take full advantage of Annie Power's mishap, and the Closutton yard has a number of other leading lights in the mares' division for the new campaign.
Mullins added: "Petite Parisienne is another mare I like and she'll run in the top mares' races, while others to keep an eye on are Morning Run, Daisy's Gift and Whiteout."
A head behind Glens Melody at Cheltenham was Polly Peachum.
Her trainer Nicky Henderson is eyeing another attempt, and said: "I'm not sure where to start her off this season, but she's in very good form with herself.
"Everything she does will be geared towards the OLBG Mares' Hurdle at the Festival and that will be her final outing before being retired."
Third was Bitofapuzzle, but she is set for a change in direction this year.
Trainer Harry Fry said: "She'll be competing over fences this season, but I may run Blue Buttons in the OLBG-sponsored race at Wetherby on October 31. We have so many options now with this series in place."
