Smurfit Champion Hurdle fourth Ashley Park could return to action on the Flat at Doncaster on Saturday, it was revealed today.
The gelding, who was beaten less than seven lengths by Istabraq at Cheltenham last week despite only one previous run over timber, is among the entries for the Konica East Doncaster Shield.
His trainer Mark Pitman said today: "We'll have a look at the entries and make a decision nearer the time.
"He wouldn't run if the ground was firm but if I don't run him I'll probably work him. Aintree is certainly not out of the question."
The six-year-old was a very useful performer on the Flat as a three-year-old, winning the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial at Leopardstown in 1997 for trainer Charles O'Brien.
"He's very well, we're absolutely delighted with him. He looks in top form and he's obviously he's pretty fit so we thought we might try and nick a Flat race before the Flat gets into full swing," Pitman explained.
"It's not beyond the realms of possibility that he could have a few runs on the Flat in conditions races."
The trainer also had news of Monsignor, who retained his unbeaten record over timber with victory in the Royal & SunAlliance Hurdle at Cheltenham.
"Monsignor is fine," Pitman reported. "I haven't discussed it with the owner whether we do entries for him at Aintree or not but the chances are he's finished for the season."
Plans are on hold for Hennessy Cognac Gold Cup winner Ever Blessed who was pulled up in the Tote Cheltenham Gold Cup.
"Ever Blessed was a little bit lame when he came back and we're assessing the situation," the trainer added.
