Charlie Swan today declared himself "delighted" with Istabraq after partnering the dual-Smurfit Champion Hurdle winner in a piece of work at trainer Aidan O'Brien's Ballydoyle base.
He was riding the horse for the first time since winning the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle on him at Leopardstown in January.
"It was my first time to sit on him since Leopardstown and he felt very good," said Swan. "We jumped a couple of hurdles along with Theatreworld and Darapour, and then just gave the three of them a little blow-out on the flat.
"I was delighted with Istabraq and all seems to be going well so far."
Istabraq is 1-3 with William Hill to retain his crown on Tuesday.
