Embracing the Champion Hurdle Challenge: Morrison and Not So Sleepy Ready to Take on the Task

Seasoned campaigner excels in Lambourn Workout. 

Hughie Morrison proudly declares Not So Sleepy's strong progression towards the forthcoming Unibet Champion Hurdle following a dynamic display on the Lambourn gallops this Wednesday.

The battle-hardened competitor, boasting an impressive tally of 11 victories across jumps and the Flat, showcased his enduring spirit by clinching Grade One glory at Sandown's rescheduled Fighting Fifth Hurdle in December.

Having afforded his 12-year-old a well-deserved winter respite, Morrison is gearing up for the veteran's fifth bid for Champion Hurdle supremacy within the next three weeks.

During a recent gallop in Lambourn, Morrison noted the horse’s robust condition, indicating promising prospects for the upcoming challenge. Reflecting on the workout, he expressed his gratitude to Lambourn's accommodating staff and revealed,

"He had a spin up The Long gallop and he went up there like a rocket". 

Not So Sleepy, who faced a setback in his initial Champion Hurdle appearance four years ago, has secured fifth place in the last three editions, contending with formidable rivals like Honeysuckle and Constitution Hill.

Acknowledging the tough competition ahead, including the likes of Constitution Hill and State Man, Morrison remains optimistic yet realistic about his horse’s chances on March 12. Emphasising the significance of challenging conditions for the race, he quipped,

"We’d like a day like today on Tuesday, March 12! Hopefully, we get wet ground to make it hard work so the speed horses can’t quicken away from him".

Despite the obstacles, Morrison maintains his confidence in Not So Sleepy’s capabilities, acknowledging the unique position of his seasoned campaigner. He jested,

"He’s lucky he’s not in a Willie Mullins or Gordon Elliott yard as he probably wouldn’t be running, would he? He’d be running in a County Hurdle or being saved for an egg and spoon race the week before or something".

Concluding on a reflective note, Morrison highlighted concerns about the evolving landscape of horse racing, expressing disappointment at the direction of events such as the Grand National weights announcement.