Coneygree is likely to be given an entry in the World Hurdle
Coneygree is likely to have an entry in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle in the absence of four-time winner Big Buck's.
Last Updated: 18/12/12 3:39pm
Mark Bradstock's exciting novice maintained his unbeaten record over hurdles in impressive style at Cheltenham on Saturday, proving his stamina in no uncertain terms.
His Festival opportunities had looked to be either the Neptune Novice' Hurdle or the Albert Bartlett, but connections will now consider taking on his elders in the World Hurdle.
"He's very full of himself and while he doesn't like being told to take it easy he will have a quiet two weeks now," said Sara Bradstock, the Oxfordshire trainer's wife and assistant.
"He will have one run before the Festival - hopefully it will be around the end of January, or maybe something like the Challow Hurdle (Newbury). He's earned a crack at a race like that, but it depends how he is.
"He was most impressive (on Saturday). We wanted to see if he'd stay three miles and I don't think there's any doubt now. It is wonderful for the future to know there are no stamina doubts.
"He actually works better on good ground at home but like his brother (Carruthers) he likes the fact the soft ground slows the others down.
"In answer to the question, 'Would we be tempted by the World Hurdle now there is no Big Buck's?', I suppose we'd have to be. He'll certainly have the entry, and I know a few of the owners would be keen, but it may be better to keep our powder dry."