24 declared for Champion Hurdle Binocular will face a monster field of 23 rivals in his bid to become the second successive five-year-old to win the Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle. Nicky Henderson's youngster finished second in the Supreme Novices' Hurdle 12 months ago but has since looked imperious with victories at Aintree, Haydock and Ascot. Henderson, who masterminded the career of triple Champion Hurdle winner See You Then, also holds leading claims with Punjabi, third last year, and Sentry Duty, winner of The Ladbroke. Katchit broke a long-standing hoodoo for the five-year-old brigade last season but has disappointed connections this term. Alan King has, however, freshened up the diminutive little terrier and has been far more positive about his chance in recent weeks. As well as Binocular, last year's juvenile crop are represented by Celestial Halo, Ashkazar, Crack Away Jack, French import Othermix and Irish challenger Won In The Dark. Along with Brave Inca and Katchit, former champions Hardy Eustace and Sublimity are also back for more. Noel Meade has declared all three of his entries - Harchibald, Jered and Muirhead. Last year's favourite Sizing Europe, Willie Mullins' Ebaziyan and River Liane complete a strong Irish team. The Donald McCain-trained Whiteoak, a Festival winner last season, is the only mare in the field. Last year's runner-up Osana takes his chance, while Snap Tie, Blue Bajan, Alph and Cybergenic complete the field.
