Hulysse set for chase debut

Smart hurdler Hulysse Royal is set to make his debut over fences next week after shining in schooling sessions from champion jockey Tony McCoy.

Trainer Oliver Sherwood confirmed today that the six-year-old - winner of a valuable race at Cheltenham in November last year - was ready for action.

The gelding was likely to appear at Exeter or Warwick on Tuesday or Kempton on Wednesday, he said.

'He will run and it could be any of those races. He is in great form and Tony was pleased with the way he schooled.

'We found at the end of the season that he had ulcers in his stomach - that`s why his form was a bit in and out - but he has been treated for that.

'I haven`t got a plan for him yet. We will get over the first chase first. It`s like going back to school - you have got to start at the bottom of the ladder.

'I am pleased with what he has done in his schooling sessions but the proof of the pudding is on the racecourse.

'We have always rated him. He won a big race at Cheltenham last year but he didn`t fulfil his promise because of the ulcers,' added Sherwood.

Asked whether he hoped Hulysse Royal might make up into a Cheltenham prospect over fences, he said: 'Everybody`s long-term aim is to go to Cheltenham but there is a lot of water to go under the bridge before that.'

Paul Nicholls hopes to run his highly-regarded Montifault in the Badger Brewery Handicap Chase at Wincanton on November 10th.

He said today: 'The plan has always been to start Montifault off in the race. He is fit and ready to run.'

Six-year-old Montifault was triumphant twice last season in novice chases at Ascot and Fontwell and Nicholls holds the horse in high regard.