Classy Lady Back In Work

Feathard Lady is back in light work after recovering from the sprained hind fetlock joint that ruled her out of the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Colm Murphy's unbeaten six-year-old had been on the easy list since picking up the injury last month and connections are now hoping to have her fighting fit for a trip to the Punchestown Festival.

'She has been to the veterinary hospital twice and has been given the all-clear,' said County Wexford-based Murphy.

'She is back doing slow work now and if she is ready for Punchestown then great but, if not, we are not too worried either.

'We will leave it to her and if she comes back in time we will probably go to Punchestown, but if not we will wait until next year.'

The seven-times winner had been favourite for the Champion Hurdle following her effortless success in the Christmas Hurdle at Sandown and Murphy confirmed the Festival race will be her target next term.

'All roads will lead to Cheltenham next year for her. We haven't had to ask any serious questions of her and everytime we stepped her up she responded to it,' he told At The Races.

'We will map out a route to the Champion Hurdle, but she is fragile and has had her problems so we won't over-race her.'

? PA Sport