The New One one of eleven entries for Unibet Champion Hurdle Trial at Haydock
Nigel Twiston-Davies' popular veteran will attempt to win the Grade Two at Haydock for a fourth straight year but faces some decent rivals, including Dan Skelton's Ch'tibello.
THE NEW ONE is set to bid for a fourth Unibet Champion Hurdle Trial in a row at Haydock on Saturday.
This £75,000 prize has attracted 11 entries, but Nigel Twiston-Davies' ever popular veteran sets the standard.
The New One finished a gallant second in a thrilling renewal of the International Hurdle at Cheltenham on his penultimate start, with Ch'tibello not far away in fourth place.
Connections of the Dan Skelton-trained eight-year-old are hoping to turn the tables at Haydock.
"That was our lad's first run for nine months," said part-owner Ian Marmion.
"I know trainers can get them plenty fit enough at home these days but nothing brings them on like a run and he was fairly tired after it.
"We've got course and distance form and won't mind the ground so we're hoping for a big run.
"The New One has had four tough races this season so I'd be hoping we could improve past him, but he takes some beating in this race.
"I certainly wouldn't mind owning him, I know that much."
Templegate's Treble
NEXT BEST 3.05 Hereford - Carlos Du Fruitier: 'Won nicely at Wetherby in November and was running a good race prior to falling three out last time'
TREBLE 12.35 Ayr - Cool Mix: 'Has been consistent this season a slightly less aggressive ride over further should do the trick'
Champion trainer Nicky Henderson has two entries, the promising Call Me Lord and Lough Derg Spirit.
Paul Nicholls' frustrating dual Grade One winner Irving is also entered, having finished second on his last start behind Buveur D'Air in the Fighting Fifth Hurdle.
Agrapart, Clyne and the Stuart Crawford pair of Fine Rightly and Jimmy Breekie are also among the entries.
