Hurricane decision in next few days

A decision on Hurricane Fly's participation at the Cheltenham Festival is likely to be made in the next few days.

Willie Mullins' star novice hurdler had his form boosted on Sunday by the victory of Go Native at Naas, who finished 10 lengths behind him over Christmas.

However, he was denied a run in the rescheduled Deloitte Novice Hurdle last week at the 11th hour after being found slightly lame.

"The horse will be seen by the vet and we'll decide in the next three days whether he goes to Cheltenham or not," said Mullins.

As well as his overall participation being in doubt, the actual race in which he will run in is still the subject of much conjecture, but the victory of Go Native saw Coral trim Hurricane Fly into 7-2 for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle.

"Hurricane Fly could well develop into one of the bankers of the meeting although a recent setback will probably deter ante-post punters from stepping in too heavily just yet," said Simon Clare, Coral spokesman.

Mullins also has Cousin Vinny, Mikael D'Haguenet and Quiscover Fontaine as possibles for the Cheltenham novice events but said running plans will not be decided yet.

"A lot will depend on the ground and who runs in what but we'll leave a decision as late as possible," he said.

"I'm not sure if Jayo goes for the Arkle either, it needs discussing with the owner.

"And I'm not a fan of the English handicapper so we won't bother sending any over for them."