Mouse aiming for Gold with China

Mouse Morris reports China Rock in top order following his excellent performance in the Hennessy Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Making his first appearance since running third to Kauto Star at Down Royal in November, the eight-year-old was clear of his rivals two fences from home before tiring into fourth.

Morris feels his charge will improve from a fitness point of view, and on better ground, and will now head straight for the Cheltenham Gold Cup on March 18.

"He came out of the race with not a bother on him and we were delighted with the run," said the County Tipperary handler.

"He'd been off a couple of months and he is definitely a much better horse on better ground, so it was a really good performance.

"He'll go straight to Cheltenham now for the Gold Cup. I'll go there looking for a place and just hoping for the best.

"It's a bit early to be talking about jockey plans yet. We'll see what Barry Geraghty's doing and see who's available nearer the time."