Slattery to break new ground with first Cheltenham runner

The Jim Nolan Transport Rated Novice Hurdle has proved an incredible trial for the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle at Cheltenham and Andy Slattery hopes that trend continues this year with Sir Allen.

Sir Allen added to a Punchestown maiden hurdle win on New Year’s Eve when finishing well to beat fellow Boodles entries Morning Soldier and Byker at Naas last month and will be the Killenaule trainer’s first Festival runner in just ten days’ time.

Brazil followed up a win in the Naas rated novice hurdle by lowering the colours of Gaelic Warrior in the Boodles 12 months ago, while Aramax (2020) and Band Of Outlaws (2019) have also completed the same Naas/Cheltenham double within the past four years.

“We are going to the Boodles. It is the route a lot of the winners of the (Naas) race have gone. We can dream!” said Brian Slattery, brother and assistant trainer.

"He's in good form but we are taking on the best over there. We are delighted to be taking part.

"He deserves his chance and is Andy's first Cheltenham runner. Hopefully we get there in one piece.”

Quotes by Michael Graham