Peddlers Cross (above) is one of the market leaders for the 2011 Champion Hurdle. (credit: hyperionone)
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Donald McCain believes that Peddlers Cross and Menorah may have slipped under the radar ahead of this year’s Champion Hurdle.
The trainer was speaking after Tony McCoy admitted Binocular would have to improve if he is going to defend his Champion Hurdle crown and McCain believes that people may be forgetting about a couple of the more likely winners in Tuesday’s feature.
“I don’t quite know where the ratings have come from over the last 12 months but you only have to look at the placed horses in last year’s Champion Hurdle to know that it’s a better race this year,” the handler explained.
“From the novice days, both Peddlers and Menorah have been underrated by the handicapper. To end the season on 151 and for Cue Card to be whatever he was for winning that novice hurdle at Cheltenham in the autumn. It’s looking a hell of a contest.”
McCain also confirmed that Galway Hurdle hero Overturn would be partnered by Graham Lee in the two-mile showpiece, explaining: “There are a few people that have won on him but myself and Tim (Leslie, owner) spoke about it over the last few days and we’d decided on Graham.”
