Cheltenham will see some of the greatest pretenders to Istabraq`s Champion Hurdle crown clash in tomorrow`s Bonusprint Bula Hurdle.
The eight declarations for the Grade Two event are headed by the Tim Easterby-trained Barton, who returned from a season-long lay-off to win the Pertemps Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle last time, extending his unbeaten record over timber to eight in the process.
His opponents include Hors La Loi III, who finished second to Istabraq in last season`s Smurfit Champion Hurdle and who will be having his first run for trainer James Fanshawe.
Ireland will be represented by the Christy Roche-trained Youlneverwalkalone, who makes a quick reappearance after winning the Hatton`s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse last Sunday.
Nigel Twiston-Davies runs Martell Aintree Hurdle winner Mister Morose, while Geos and Master Tern, winners of last season`s Tote Gold Trophy and County Hurdle respectively, also take their chance in a top-class field.
Bonusprint Bula Hurdle declarations: Barton, Hors La Loi III, Mister Morose, Youlneverwalkalone, Geos, Hitman, Mr Percy and Seebald.
