Elliott hopeful for Beau in Rated Hurdle Gordon Elliott is hopeful Un Beau Matin can earn an overdue return to the winner's enclosure in the Punchestown Rated Hurdle. The Gigginstown House Stud-owned six-year-old has secured just a solitary victory since arriving from France, which came at this track in November 2012. However, he has run a number of fine races in defeat and was last seen chasing home the talented Boston Bob over this course and distance on New Year's Eve. Elliott said: "On his run the last day behind Boston Bob and on the ratings it would look as though he'd have a good chance. We're hoping he'll run well." Champion trainer Willie Mullins fields City Slicker (Paul Townend) and Bishopsfurze (Emmet Mullins) in the two-and-a-half-mile contest. City Slicker was a disappointing favourite in the Ladbroke Hurdle at Ascot three weeks ago, while Bishopsfurze was well held in a chase at Tramore on New Year's Day, his first start in nearly a year. Mullins' son Patrick said: "City Slicker didn't run to form last time. Maybe he didn't travel and maybe he ran a bit keen, but nothing came to light. It was too bad to be true though, which is the only good thing. "If he'd finished sixth or seventh we'd have been disappointed, but he ran so bad that we know it wasn't lack of ability that got him beaten. Two and a half miles on Saturday would be a worry for him, but he's won twice at the track. "Bishopsfurze had been a long time off and disappointed on his last run. If he could just run well we'd be happy." The other participants are Mazuri Cowboy, Luska Lad, Shamiran and Whodoyouthink.
