Thousand Stars could face Big Buck's at the 2012 Cheltenham Festival. (credit: Will Palmer)
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Legendary Irish trainer Willie Mullins looks set to give Thousand Stars another season over hurdles after he tasted Grade One victory for the first time in Saturday’s French Champion Hurdle.
The seven-year-old was the bridesmaid on a number of different occasions last season and he had plenty of form with his stablemate Hurricane Fly, despite never getting his head in front at the highest level.
However, he added a Grade One victory to his CV with a sensational display at Auteuil last weekend and he could be on course to face the legendary Big Buck’s in next season’s major staying races.
“He deserved it and it was a terrific performance from him on the day,” trainer Willie Mullins explained.
“His form has stood up all season and it was great to go and see him win a Grade One – and get the trip so well.
“I think we’re edging towards him staying hurdling next season now.”
Meanwhile, Mullins was equally thrilled with Mourad who managed to finish fourth in the race and stablemate Final Approach who plugged on for fifth in the French showpiece.
The trainer continued: “Mourad ran well but probably would have been suited by better ground and a better pace. He’ll be staying hurdling next season as well,” the champion trainer added.
“I thought Final Approach ran a very good race for a five-year-old and we’ve yet to make a decision on him for next season.”
