racing_news/

Zarkandar Battles to International Win
15/12/12

1 Zarkandar 6/5F
2 Grandouet 5/2
3 Rock On Ruby 5/2
7 ran Distances: 2l, 6l, 24l
TIME 4m 29.49s (slow by 34.99s)

Zarkandar stayed on best to win the International Hurdle at Cheltenham with Grandouet running on well in second and Rock On Ruby back in third.

Zarkandar
Racehorse Photos

In receipt of 4lb from Champion Hurdle hero Elite Hurdle) I thought he'd have no chance of running well, but he just suddenly picked up and was enjoying his schooling again.

"He's the right age and I think he's still improving. He'll probably go for the Kingwell in February, but I haven't made up my mind.

"There's never a shortage of jockeys if Ruby wants to pick Hurricane Fly, but this horse will have reminded him of his ability and we're really looking forward to March."

Nicky Henderson said of Grandouet: "I want one more run into him before the Champion. I might look at the Kingwell, but it depends what else looks like running there."

Harry Fry said of Rock On Ruby: "I think a combination of the ground and not having had a run has cost him, but Noel (Fehily) felt he was as good as ever and we might go straight to the Festival."

Stanjames.com International Hurdle
130,000 added, 4yo plus, 2m 1f, Class 1
7 ran
Going: Heavy, Soft in places