Crambo Eyes Another Prep Run Ahead of Stayers' Hurdle

Trainer Fergal O’Brien plans to give Crambo another outing before targeting the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, following the gelding’s thrilling victory in the Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot on Saturday.

The seven-year-old defended his title in style, edging out Hiddenvalley Lake by a head in a pulsating Grade One finish. This victory marked a return to form for Crambo, who had questions to answer after underwhelming runs in last season’s Stayers’ Hurdle and Liverpool Hurdle.

“All is good, very happy with him,” O’Brien said on Sunday. “He enjoyed his day yesterday, so we’re delighted, and we’re having a Crambo party tomorrow night.”

While Crambo went straight from the Long Walk to Cheltenham last season, O’Brien intends to alter the approach this year.

“I think it will be important for him to have another run. That’s what we didn’t do last year,” he explained. “Yesterday was his first run of the season, and I think we need to get another race into him before Cheltenham.”

O’Brien is considering the Cleeve Hurdle at the end of January or potentially a less taxing contest, even if it means dropping back in trip.

“There probably isn’t a lot else, but we might have to find a race somewhere. I’d be very keen to get another run into him,” he added.

With his Ascot triumph behind him and plans for a more polished prep this time, Crambo is shaping up as a strong contender for the prestigious Stayers’ Hurdle in March.