Aintree News: Sprinter possible for Melling clash

Sprinter Sacre is one of the best horses in Timeform's history

Nicky Henderson refused to rule out the possibility of Sprinter Sacre running at Aintee, where a fascinating clash with Cue Card and Flemenstar could be on the cards...

Speaking on Channel 4 Racing, Nicky Henderson said that Sprinter Sacre, the third-highest rated national hunt horse in Timeform's history, had come out of Cheltenham in fine form and is likely to run again this season, either in the Melling Chase, over two and a half miles at Aintree, or in the Champion Chase, over two miles, at Punchestown.

In an earlier interview with At The Races, Henderson said: "We might try Sprinter Sacre over two and a half (miles) which would open up a few extra avenues for next year. He has got this hugely high cruising speed and the faster he goes the better he probably jumps."

"When you are holding him up behind horses you are just containing his enthusiasm and his natural talent which is to go and bowl and jump and attack."

"I'd think it might be a good idea. We`ve discussed it at length this week. We haven't said definitely it`s what we are going to do. We were thinking of Punchestown and there's also the Celebration Chase at Sandown on the final day (of the season). So we have got three options."

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