Backstage set for Cheltenham
February 16, 2012 09:35:09 UK
Top Irish trainer Gordon Elliott has finalised his plans for his high class hunter chaser Backstage.
He's definitely a Cheltenham runner, where he is 1000.00 to win the Christie's Foxhunter Steeple Chase, and could be involved in his Grand National winning trainer's Aintree plans in April.
He (Backstage) is firmly on track for his main target this season, the Cheltenham Foxhunters.
Gordon Elliott
Elliott has reported the horse to be in good heart and said: "Following Backstage's sixth successive point to point victory this season at Ballydarragh on February 5, he is firmly on track for his main target this season, the Cheltenham Foxhunters.
"Jamie Codd made his return to the saddle the same weekend following a long spell on the sidelines and was reunited with the horse whom he partnered all last season and to win his first Open this season.
"Jamie will be taking the ride at Cheltenham. Backstage also has an entry for the Grand National in which he finished 10th last year but his participation will depend on how Cheltenham goes for him."
The in-form trainer goes in search of smaller prizes at Clonmel on Thursday when Lord Redsgirth goes for the Munster Hurdle at . He won at Down Royal by eight and half lengths back in December but this is a better race and further progress will be required. He is at 7.00 to win while Back in Focus is at 1.80.
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