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Nicky Henderson ponders plans for Marie's Rock

3 minute read

Nicky Henderson has suggested that Tuesday's work at Kempton Park may lead to a re-route and a run in the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival for Marie's Rock.

Picture: (Harry Trump/Getty Images)

The mare recorded a victory in the Mares' Hurdle last year and is 3-1 to double up in the Close Brothers-backed event.

Veteran jockey Aidan Coleman piloted the JP McManus-owned Epatante, while Nico De Boinville took the reins on Marie's Rock, owned by Middleham Park Racing. Henderson was impressed with the work of both horses and believes that Marie's Rock should switch to the Stayer's Hurdle at the Festival. He suggests that the Champion Hurdle be contested by Constitution Hill, the Mares' Hurdle by Epatante and the Stayers' Hurdle by Marie's Rock - allowing each of the three entries a realistic chance of a win.

In other news, Jonbon, Fusil Raffles and Balco Coastal all got some work in at Kempton. Henderson was pleased with Jonbon's performance, but admits that Buzz may not be ready for Cheltenham and may instead focus on Aintree or the Flat. As for Luccia, Henderson is leaning towards the Mares' Novices' Hurdle instead of the Supreme for the mare.

Overall, Henderson seemed pleased with the work done by his horses and feels confident that Marie's Rock should switch to the Stayers' Hurdle for the Festival. He is keeping a close watch on the horses and ensuring that each entry is in the best physical condition possible for their respective races.


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