Racing: Jonjo O'Neill has warned conditions may not be ideal for Black Jack Ketchum's eagerly-awaited first run of the season in the Mears Group Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham tomorrow.
Last year's star novice is facing heavy ground as he steps out for the first time since slamming his rivals in a Grade One event at Aintree 246 days ago.
Unbeaten in seven starts, which includes five wins over timer, the seven-year-old will be reunited with Tony McCoy and faces five rivals in the Grade Two event.
O'Neill said: "He is in grand form for his first run and this looks a nice race to start him back.
"The ground might be a worry as it will be soft enough, but he will definitely run. I wouldn't want it heavy, though."
Black Jack Ketchum has been prevented from running so far this season owing to ground conditions and a blood problem, but O'Neill added: "He is really well at home and we will see tomorrow how he is on the track."
But the Jackdaws Castle handler has virtually ruled out a crack at next weekend's BGC long Walk Hurdle at Ascot.
"The plan is to get him back out tomorrow, but he won't be going to Ascot next weekend, or that isn't the plan anyway. You can never say never, but he won't run unless something dramatic happens."
Black Jack Ketchum will be joined in the race by stablemate Youlbesolucky - who is rated 41lb inferior - with Alan King's Blazing Bailey and the Thierry Doumen-trained Palmridge the other notable entries. PA