Carlito on course for Triumph

Carlito Brigante will look to end Ireland's eight-year wait for a Triumph Hurdle winner after impressing in the Scottish version at Musselburgh.

Willie Mullins' Scolardy in 2002 was the last success for the Emerald Isle in the juvenile championship, but they have a genuine contender this year and Gordon Elliott's charge is just 7-1 after his win in the John Smith's Scottish Triumph Hurdle.

Brian Ellison's Ultimate set a brisk gallop in the £30,000 contest, but Jason Maguire always looked confident on Gordon Elliott's juvenile and the pair powered clear for a six-length success.

Grand National-winning trainer Elliott had no hesitation in nominating the Triumph as his next race, where the famous Cheltenham hill should play to Carlito Brigante's strengths.

"He is a big, laid back horse and the Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham is the plan now. That course will suit him much better as Musselburgh is a bit tight for him," said Elliott.

"I wanted to go for the Grade One race at Leopardstown (won by Pittoni) with him but we came here for the better ground.

"After he had won here in November, Jason advised me to buy him and he's now owned by Michael O'Leary (boss of Ryanair) - he is a very good horse."