Champion Hurdle dark horse set to take up weekend entry

Eldorado Allen, who defied a lengthy absence to finish a fine second at Sandown this month, is set to test his Unibet Champion Hurdle credentials in the Betway Contenders Hurdle back at the track on Saturday.

Owned by John Romans and Terry Warner – big supporters of trainer Colin Tizzard's Dorset yard – Eldorado Allen impressed on his British debut at Sandown in November 2018, but then unseated at Aintree a month later.

He was off until finishing second to Mill Green in a handicap hurdle at the Esher track four weeks ago.

Eldorado Allen, 7-2 second favourite for the Listed Contenders Hurdle with Paddy Power and Betfair Sportsbook, is also a leading chance for Newbury's Betfair Hurdle next week.

Tizzard's son and assistant Joe said: "I'd say it's quite possible we'll run him on Saturday. It's a difficult one as he's entered in the Betfair Hurdle as well. He's only had two completed starts in England – winning and finishing second at Sandown – but he's rated 152.

"It's asking an awful lot for a lovely young horse to go in a 24-runner Betfair Hurdle, and it could be a nicer race for him at Sandown on Saturday. We'll have to talk to Terry and John a bit more in depth, but we'll see what we think on Friday morning and go from there. But Dad and I are keen to run on Saturday."

Eldorado Allen is a general 50-1 for the Champion Hurdle, although some firms go 33-1.

"He's got the entry so, wherever he goes, if he can run a big race, he deserves to go there," Tizzard added.

"We're definitely thinking about taking him there, it's just a case of whether he's good enough and time will tell. Whatever happens, he's a lovely novice chaser for next season."

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