Grand Crus may go for French Champion David Pipe has confirmed he is considering running stable star Grands Crus in the French Champion Hurdle at Auteuil on June 18. The grey enjoyed an excellent campaign, completing a hat-trick of wins in the Cleeve Hurdle before chasing home the mighty Big Buck's in both the World Hurdle and in Aintree's Liverpool Hurdle. With Big Buck's now on his summer break, Pipe feels a trip to France may see Grands Crus return to winning form. "We know he likes soft ground and while it is not definite he's going to run, it is certainly an option," said Pipe. "We've kept him ticking over since Aintree and we just thought it looked a good opportunity for him. "Questarabad was obviously the best horse in France and he unfortunately died the other day. The prize money is very good and he would look to have a good chance if he runs." Looking ahead to next season, Pipe is expecting Grands Crus to begin a novice chase campaign. "As long as Big Buck's is around, I'd imagine we'll be going chasing," the trainer confirmed.
