• Cheltenham Festival

Big Buck's returns in World Hurdle pursuit

ESPN staff
March 11, 2011
Big Buck's romped to victory in last year's World Hurdle © Getty Images
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Big Buck's will face stiff competition from Grands Crus in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, as both horses feature among the 14 remaining starters for the race next Thursday.

After winning the last two World Hurdles at the Festival, Big Buck's was widely expected to be the horse to beat again this year as the eight-year-old endeavours to emulate Inglis Drever's three consecutive victories in the event.

But Big Buck's will now have to watch for the threat of Grands Crus, trained by David Pipe, as the six-year-old is unbeaten in his last three starts. Victory in the recent Cleeve Hurdle, over the same course and distance, pegged Tom Scudamore's ride as a genuine contender.

"Obviously we fancied him," Pipe said. "But the manner of his victory was pretty staggering.

"Tom will have to try and settle him early, and the tactics of the race are going to be intriguing. We'll have Plan A, B, C and D. But Tom knows what he is like."

Pipe also has Ashkazar and Celestial Halo registered for the race, while Willie Mullins will be confident both Mourad and Fiveforthree can be competitive if the going is conducive.

Nicky Henderson's Zaynar will race over three miles for the first time, while familiar faces at Cheltenham Powerstation, Rigour Back Bob and Berties Dream round out the Irish hopes.

Any Given Day, Cross Kennon, Restless Harry and Souffleur are also listed for the race.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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