John McConnell is currently exploring various possibilities with Intense Approach, who has opted out of the Listed novice hurdle at Punchestown, an event in which he was originally scheduled to participate today.
"We are currently in a state of uncertainty regarding our next move. The idea of retaining his novice status for the upcoming year is quite appealing, which is why we made entries in prestigious races,"
stated McConnell.
There are a couple of potential races in consideration for Intense Approach. McConnell mentioned,
"The Dovecote at Kempton and the Premier Hurdle at Kelso, both Grade 2 races, are options if we are considering a path to Cheltenham".
McConnell pointed out that Intense Approach did not perform well during his last outing in Wexford, but his recent training sessions have been promising, showcasing his considerable talent. Despite his potential, McConnell is still contemplating whether to retain Intense Approach's novice status for the upcoming season, keeping his future plans fluid.
Furthermore, Intense Approach has secured a spot in the prestigious Grade 1 Supreme Novices' Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. Although he suffered a fall as the favourite in a maiden hurdle at Wexford in November, his previous victories in bumpers at Bellewstown and Listowel highlight his capabilities.