World Hurdle News: Record entry for Thursday feature

Willie Mullins has entered Quevega, Thousand Star and Zaidpour

With no Big Buck's to contend with, a record entry of 61 has been received for the World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival, set to be run on Thursday, March 14...

The absence of Paul Nicholls' superstar, who had won the previous four renewals, means the champion trainer will have to find a new leading stayer among his team of six.

Kauto Stone and Lexus Chase winner Tidal Bay feature among his possible contenders along with Aaim To Prosper, Celestial Halo, Prospect Wells and Wonderful Charm.

Long Walk Hurdle winner Reve De Sivola is there for Nick Williams and Mark Bradstock has entered the novice Coneygree.

Nicky Henderson has Oscar Whisky, Riverside Theatre and Oscara Dara among his seven entries while Willie Mullins has 10, with Quevega given the option, although she is reportedly going to bid for a fifth successive win in the David Nicholson Mares' Hurdle. Thousand Stars and Zaidpour are also in Mullins' team.

Noel Meade's Monksland looks a major player after winning the Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown and he is on target for the race and will go straight there.

Rite Of Passage, Champion Court, Bog Warrior, Cape Tribulation, Peddlers Cross, Dynaste and Grands Crus are also entered.

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