One of the most popular horses in Irish racing looks set to begin his season at Cheltenham on Friday as Gordon Elliott’s Cause Of Causes was reported an intended runner for the Glenfarclas Cross Country Handicap Chase.
The three-time Cheltenham Festival hero and Aintree Grand National runner-up will take his first steps on the road to the spring festivals this weekend, along with the Enda Bolger battalion of Auvergnat, Cantlow, Josies Orders and Gilgamboa – all sporting the green and gold of JP McManus.
Asked on the return of some National Hunt favourites in Friday’s 3m6f handicap, racing manager to JP McManus, Frank Berry told the Racing Post: “They’re all intended runners at the minute.”
McManus tasted success on four occasions last season with enigmatic but brilliant chaser Great Field, with Berry providing an update on April’s impressive Grade 1 Ryanair Novice Chase winner at Punchestown.
“I’m unsure when Great Field will start back” he said. “I don’t think he’ll come under consideration for the Tingle Creek at Sandown though”, with other leading owner Rich Ricci yesterday all but ruling out a tilt at the same contest for his star chaser Douvan.
