Jade could clash with Annie at Punchestown Gordon Elliott is considering options for Grade One-winning mare Apple's Jade. Having moved to Elliott following the well-publicised split between owners Gigginstown House Stud and Willie Mullins, the five-year-old was beaten a nose by Irving in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle at Newcastle before inflicting defeat on Vroum Vroum Mag in the Hatton's Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse. Although holding a Champion Hurdle entry, the Mares' Hurdle at Cheltenham is her preferred target in March, and she could meet Annie Power at Punchestown before then. Elliott said: "There are two races for her (before Cheltenham), including the race at Punchestown. It will probably be the Mares' Hurdle then (at Cheltenham)."
