Could Wodhooh be switched to the Champion Hurdle after Fighting Fifth drama? Gordon Elliott has his say

Gordon Elliott has said it was more "unlikely than likely" that Wodhooh would be aimed at the Unibet Champion Hurdle despite the drama at Newcastle on Saturday.

Both Constitution Hill and The New Lion fell in a dramatic Fighting Fifth Hurdle and the fallout from it has since seen last season's Martin Pipe winner Wodhooh cut to as short as 12-1 with Unibet.

She made it eight from nine over hurdles with a stylish success in the Grade 2 Ascot Hurdle recently and at a press morning last Monday Elliott did not rule out having a crack at the Champion Hurdle, or the Stayers' Hurdle, even though she is 6-4 with Ladbrokes for the Mares' Hurdle.

Speaking from Fairyhouse on Sunday, Elliott said: "I'm not ruling anything out, but I'd say it's more unlikely than likely that she'll run in the Champion Hurdle. I'd say she'll more than likely go for the Mares' Hurdle at this stage."

Gordon Elliott: trainer of WodhoohCredit: Edward Whitaker

Racing TV's Steve Mellish was one of those who spoke of his interest in Wodhooh for the Champion Hurdle after the Fighting Fifth, and she did get within two and three-quarter lengths of Lossiemouth in the Aintree Hurdle on her final start last season.

As regards her next assignment, Elliott said it was likely to be in Britain, where she has won five of her eight races. 

He added: "She might get an entry in the Grade 1 at Leopardstown over Christmas, but there are two options for her across the water in mares' races, and she might go for one of those instead, potentially at Doncaster. We'll see.

"She's been great since Ascot and I couldn't be happier with her. She just keeps on improving and you have to remember she's only five, so hopefully there's more improvement to come."

Mares' Hurdle (Cheltenham, March 12)
Ladbrokes: 6-4 Wodhooh, 9-4 Lossiemouth, 8 Jade De Grugy, 10 Kargese, 16 Brighterdaysahead, 20 Aurora Vega, 25 bar.

Read more . . .

Nicky Henderson puts Constitution Hill's season on hold: 'He'll have a quiet week and we'll rethink the whole thing' 

Teahupoo usurped at top of Stayers' Hurdle market despite holding off Ballyburn for record-equalling third Hatton's Grace 

Romeo Coolio cut to 6-1 for the Arkle after completing a treble for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy in the Drinmore 

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