Meade Delighted With Hurdling Ammunition

Noel Meade would have no qualms about running all his Smurfit Kappa Champion Hurdle contenders in the big race come Cheltenham in March.

As Harchibald, Iktitaf and Jazz Messenger are all in different ownership, Meade, the champion trainer in Ireland, says they could all clash in the championship event.

And despite a disappointing showing in the Greatwood Hurdle behind Detroit City at Cheltenham last month, Meade has also urged punters not to forget another of his string, Sweet Wake.

'All three are there with chances for the Champion,' said Meade. 'With Harchibald we have seen him go to Cheltenham and do it before and if we can get him back to his best he'll have a live chance.

'I'm bringing him along steadily and he's having regular canters at home, but we'll play it by ear as to when he comes back.

'Iktitaf runs today and we'll know more after that and Jazz Messenger won well the other day ? if his jumping holds up and he keeps improving he will be a contender.

'He sometimes gets in tight to his hurdles but he proved how good he was the other day and he has come back without a bother on him.

'But you shouldn't forget about Sweet Wake either as he cracked a splint after Cheltenham and has had some time out, but he'll be back in the spring.

'All four belong to different owners and it wouldn't bother me running them all in the Champion Hurdle.

'In an ideal world they will stay apart until then though, but if two owners want to run in AIG Champion Hurdle for example then they will run.

'But let's not forget March is a long time away and if they all get there sound Paul (Carberry) could be facing a tough choice.'

(C) PA Sport