Court Minstrel to go on trial
Last Updated: 21/10/14 11:53am
Court Minstrel is likely to return to Cheltenham for next month's Arkle Trophy Trial following his impressive display at Prestbury Park last Friday.
Trainer Evan Williams has admitted to having reservations about going chasing with his talented hurdler, but he jumped soundly on his fencing debut at Newton Abbot last month and was similarly impressive as he made it two from two at Cheltenham.
The Llancarfan-based handler is keen to remain grounded for the time being as he acknowledges far sterner tests lie in wait for his charge.
Williams said: "We won't be making any definite plans with him as he will only run when the ground is good to soft at worst. We won't be slogging him around places in soft ground in the winter.
"Having said that, if the ground is suitable, I suppose the most sensible plan would be to go back to Cheltenham next month for the Grade Two race, the Arkle Trial (November 16).
"He beat some talented horses the other day, but that would be another test for him, giving weight away against a higher class field.
"If I'm honest, he has taken me a bit by surprise. You only had to look at him in the paddock the other day and you'd think it was barmy to be going chasing, as he looks like a good, handicap hurdler.
"But in fairness to the horse, he jumped very well around Cheltenham, Paul (Moloney, jockey) was very happy with how he was getting from A to B and it's always nice when a horse gives you a pleasant surprise.
"I think it's probably a bit premature to be talking about fancy targets in the spring - that would be putting the cart before the horse - but he deserves to step up in class.
"Hopefully we'll find out if he can pass his next test back at Cheltenham in November.''