Owner Philip Reynolds has mooted That the John Durkan Chase at Punchestown.
With had one outing over hurdles that he could only finish eighth although Even the eight-year-old was sent off favourite for the Gold Cup.
Problems were discovered that prevented him but those have been resolved.
Reynolds told that the Irish Field:”it is a case of so far, so good. Pat (Kelly, trainer) and Jerry Kelly (vet) are content with him and as soon as they are happy that’ll do me.
“He had a small process to remove fluid out of his spine and that I do not know if that had something to do with how he conducted Cheltenham. We discovered he had bone bruising post Cheltenham.
“He is starting off the season just like everyone and the fact is that he could just be”a different horse”.
“This time last year I couldn’t lie straight in bed with enthusiasm. I believe that the very best opportunity a horse has of winning a Gold Cup is straight after their newcomer season. Now he will be meeting with all seasons novices.
“it is a little early to say where he’ll return. We’ll get started before Christmas, however, everything has to be appropriate for him.
“Clonmel will come too soon for him, as will Down Royal, therefore I suppose you could be looking at exactly the John Durkan in Punchestown. Where he may go then remains to be noticed – there is a whole lot of water.
“I just hope we do not have yet another winter like last year – the floor was quick all winter and a repeat would be a tragedy.”
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