Annie Power – Cheltenham bound – but which race?
THE rain continues, more fixtures are being abandoned but time ticks on to the Cheltenham Festival which is just 44 days away and surely one of the highlights has to be the participation of the mare Annie Power. But which race will she contest?
At Doncaster yesterday the 6yo unbeaten Shirocco mare bolted up in the Grade 2 Mares’ Hurdle by 15 lengths, despite the drop back in trip. On official figures, she was entitled to win easily but it was the manner of her victory which is posing the question, “Will she go for the Champion Hurdle?”
The Willie Mullins’ potential superstar, unbeaten in 10 starts in bumpers and over hurdles has engagements in The David Nicholson Mares’ Hurdle (2 1/2 miles), the World Hurdle (3 miles) and the Champion Hurdle (2 miles).
It was interesting that yesterday’s winning jockey Ruby Walsh went to Doncaster for just the one ride when he could have gone to Cheltenham or Leopardstown for several very good rides.
I was impressed with Big Buck’s in his comeback run in the Cleeve Hurdle and although narrowly beaten, he will be a tough nut to crack in the World Hurdle in March. The Mares’ Hurdle is probably the easiest option for Annie Power but connections must surely fancy their chances of taking on the Hurricane, My Tent Or Yours and co in the big one?
Solario Racing may not have a Cheltenham contender…yet (although some owners are already dreaming of Cheltenham further down the line for Red Cossack!) but we do have a very exciting 2yo by up and coming sire Thewayyouare in training with Dean Ivory.
To arrange a private viewing of this as yet unnamed juvenile, please call the Racing Office on 01442 877 597 or email info@solarioracing.com to arrange a suitable day.
