Eustace On Course For Gowran

Reigning champion hurdler Hardy Eustace is on target to run at Gowran on Saturday after pleasing connections in a warm-up gallop.

The nine-year-old disappointed when finishing last in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle last time but trainer Dessie Hughes was satisfied with his work on Wednesday and has confirmed him as a probable runner in the Red Mills Trial Hurdle.

Hughes told the Racing Post: 'He worked doing his usual piece and he looked fine afterwards and I was happy.

'He doesn't have to work too hard but the race on Saturday will help him with next month at the back of our minds.'

Hardy Eustace is a best-priced 11-2 with Coral to register a third successive win in the Smurfit Champion Hurdle at next month's Cheltenham Festival.

? PA Sport