Racing:Reigning Champion Hurdle hero Binocular features among 31 entries for this year's renewal of the Cheltenham contest. Nicky Henderson's charge showed his well being with a brilliant performance in the Christmas Hurdle and is clear favourite to retain his crown at the Cheltenham Festival in March.
Donald McCain has both Fighting Fifth hero Peddlers Cross and Christmas Hurdle runner-up Overturn in the reckoning, while Philip Hobbs’ International Hurdle winner Menorah adds further strength to a fascinating renewal.
The Willie Mullins-trained Hurricane Fly is the pick of the Irish challenge. Joining Hurricane Fly from the Mullins yard are Blackstairmountain and Thousand Stars, while Dunguib, Solwhit and 2007 champion hurdler Sublimity are all in the reckoning.
Alan King has an interesting trio in Salden Licht, Mille Chief and Walkon, with Mille Chief seemingly the most likely Champion Hurdle contender at this stage.