Flame ready for the Champion

Countrywide Flame is ready for the Stan James Champion Hurdle after John Quinn's inmate came through his final piece of strong work ahead of next week's Cheltenham Festival.

Last season's Triumph Hurdle hero disappointed in the Christmas Hurdle at Kempton, but looked more like his old self when second behind last year's Champion Hurdle winner Rock On Ruby at Doncaster last month.

A statement posted on www.johnquinnracing.co.uk read: "Countrywide Flame did his final serious piece of work this morning and came through it well.

"He led the string at a good pace before extending nicely. It's now all systems go for him next week."

Quinn's team also provided upbeat reports on Kashmir Peak and Hidden Justice, who are both bound for the JCB Triumph Hurdle on Friday week.

"Kashmir Peak and Hidden Justice will have their final 'blowouts' next Monday morning ahead of their intended crack at the Triumph Hurdle," reported the North Yorkshire yard's website.

"Physically, they are both in tip-top form. Both horses schooled together this morning and were like old handicappers the way they attacked their hurdles."