Last year`s winner Anzum will not be bidding for a repeat success in the Cantor Index Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday, but is set to make his reappearance before too long, according to trainer Richard Phillips.
'He`s had a long summer`s rest and although he`s getting there, the Long Walk has just come a bit too early for him - he takes some getting fit,' said the Jackdaws Castle handler.
'He`ll be entered for a race at Punchestown and for the Spa Hurdle (at Cheltenham on December 30th) but at the moment, the Cheltenham race would be the likeliest option.'
Phillips also had news of Go Ballistic, who made a winning comeback over hurdles at Cheltenham last week under regular rider Tony Dobbin and now has a choice of targets.
'He was working well and looked magnificent in the paddock before the race so his win wasn`t a great surprise,' he said.
'It`s always a worry when they go back over hurdles after running over fences for a long time but he`s a super horse and I was delighted.
'We now have the decision of going for either the King George or the Ericsson Chase at Leopardstown and we`ll make a decision nearer the time.
'Mrs Lockhart is keen to use Tony as he knows the horse well and I imagine he will be on board wherever we go with him if he is available.'
