High Hopes For Wanango Bid

Connections of Wanango are happy with the progress the seven-year-old has made as the countdown to Cheltenham gathers pace.

The JP McManus-owned gelding is as short as 6-1 favourite with Betfred for the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual Challenge Cup after posting an impressive warm-up success at Uttoxeter last month.

Although he also has the option of returning to timber for the Vincent O´Brien County Handicap Hurdle, the extended two-mile handicap chase is currently the favoured option.

"It looks like we´ll go for the Grand Annual at the moment and he´s been fine since his win at Uttoxeter," reported Fozzy Stack, son and assistant to trainer Tommy.

"He is also entered in the County Hurdle so we´ll just see how it goes and see what is likely to turn up nearer the time.

"He was impressive last time and he jumped really well that day.

"He´s quite a big horse and it´s just taken a while for him to grow into himself."

The majority of bookmakers have the Nicky Henderson-trained My Petra narrowly in front of Wanango at the head of the ante-post Grand Annual markets.

Henderson´s mare is the 6-1 favourite with Paddy Power and Coral, with big-race partner Mick Fitzgerald praying she makes the cut.

Fitzgerald said: "She was a very good second to Noland and beat Strawberry at Hereford the time before.

"She´s a very decent filly and will like top of the ground if it comes up quick on the last day (of the Festival).

"Novices have a good record in these handicaps and she´s one with a very good each-way chance if she gets into the race.

"10st 4lb or 10st 5lb is my lightest weight but I´d try and do it for her if she gets in," he told At The Races.

"The race is named after Nicky´s Dad and I would love to win it for him."

(C) PA Sport