Simonsig set for Auteuil appearance Simonsig is set to take his chance in the Prix la Barka at Auteuil on Saturday. Trainer Nicky Henderson reports the injury-plagued grey to be ready to return to action after finishing a fine third to God's Own in the BoyleSports Champion Chase at Punchestown last month. That was only his second start since he won the Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham in March 2013. "He's in good shape and is coming in on the back of a good prep under his belt, so we're off," said Henderson. "It will probably be soft there, but it always is. It looks like being a hot race, but there's not much else for him at this time of year." Willie Mullins' Thousand Stars, twice winner of this Grade Two hurdle over two miles five and a half furlongs, is among a total of 19 horses at the latest forfeit stage, as is his stablemate Un De Sceaux. Ballynagour will attempt to claim back-to-back victories after scoring by five lengths 12 months ago. He will be joined this time by "talented but enigmatic" stablemate Gevrey Chambertin. Pipe confirmed the two runners will leave England for France on Wednesday evening ahead of a race which is recognised as a trial for the French Champion Hurdle. "While it is a big ask, conditions clearly suit our charges and we will be doing our best once again," the Pond House handler said. The Paul Nicholls' Ptit Zig, Nick Williams' Aubusson and Al Ferof from Dan Skelton's stable are other British possibles. The French team is headed by the Guy Cherel-trained pair of Bosseur and Blue Dragon.
