Bostons unlikely Gold Cup runner

Jessica Harrington has all but ruled out a tilt at the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Bostons Angel following another disappointing run at Leopardstown.

The eight-year-old completed a hat-trick of Grade One novice victories in last season's RSA Chase at Cheltenham, but has been disappointing in three starts this term.

After failing to complete on his seasonal return at Down Royal, he was a well-beaten third at Sandown and the application of cheekpieces for his run in the Hennessy Gold Cup failed to bring about the anticipated improvement.

After racing prominently, he weakened to finish sixth of the seven runners.

"He seems fine and he just didn't spark for whatever reason," said Harrington.

"He ran better yesterday than he did at Sandown the time before, but I'd say it's unlikely he'll run in the Gold Cup now.

"There is a race at Fairyhouse for him in a couple of weeks' time (Bobbyjo Chase), so he'll probably go there next."