HONEYSUCKLE is on course for a mouthwatering clash with Benie Des Dieux in the Mares’ Hurdle.
The Henry De Bromhead-trained six-year-old also had the option to run in the Champion Hurdle on the same afternoon at Cheltenham.
Honeysuckle will run in the Mares’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival
But connections have decided to race her against her own sex and reckon the 2m4f trip of the Mares’ will be more suitable.
The unbeaten hurdler is the 13-8 second favourite with Betfair, with Benie Des Dieux, who romped to victory on her comeback at Gowran, 8-11.
De Bromhead said: “The Mares’ Hurdle is where we’re going.
“It was a tough decision, but we’ve made it, and that’s it. She seems in great form.”
Peter Molony, racing manager to owner Kenneth Alexander, rubbished the idea that connections had taken the softer option.
He said: “I think everyone knew we were always going to leave it until late. In our opinion she’s a two-and-a-half-mile mare – that’s her optimum trip.
“I’ve read somewhere that we’re lacking in ambition – but if taking on Benie Des Dieux is lacking ambition, I don’t know what ambition is!
“It will be a great race. Let’s hope everything turns up in one piece.”
