Nicky Henderson's Cesarewitch winner Buzz made it back to back successes at the weekend as he stepped back over hurdles to land the Grade Two Coral Hurdle at Ascot.
The seven year old is starting to turn into the horse the Seven Barrows yard thought he could become and now looks a big player for the Stayers' Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival.
Having been a superb winner of the Cesarewitch at Newmarket and before that, last season finishing second in the Grade One Aintree Hurdle, he has always been a smart horse.
But now stepping up to more staying trips this term Buzz was a superb winner at Ascot at the weekend and his next target looks to be the Grade One Long Walk Hurdle back at the Berkshire track.
(Credit ATR) Owner James Stafford said: It was a great thrill to see him do that, especially as there is always the worry that he may not bounce back after his exertions in the Cesarewitch.“
What a horse! Buzz bolts up in the Grade 2 @Coral Hurdle at @Ascot for @NdeBoinville and @sevenbarrows! pic.twitter.com/prC1AjbhS1
— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) November 20, 2021
He was in great form and it was marvellous to see him do what we always thought he was capable of doing. He has always looked as if he wants two and a half miles and probably further – and he definitely wants further.
“They went a good pace and it was a good test for them. It was a truly-run race and Song For Someone was always going to ensure there was a good pace.
“As soon as we know everything is OK – and I think everything is OK, as he has come out of the race all right – the plan is to make sure he is tickety-boo for the Long Walk Hurdle on December 18.“
He has been a revelation, really. We knew he was a nice horse when we bought him, but that does not automatically transfer from being a nice horse into hurdling, but he has done really well.“
He jumped three or four flights of hurdles in his build-up to this race and he just takes things very naturally. He is a natural athlete and it is very exciting.”
