Trainer Kerry Lee has revealed Happy Diva is fit and ready to defend her crown in next week’s Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham.
The nine-year-old proved too good for Brelan D’As at Prestbury Park 12 months ago, winning by a nose for connections.
She nearly followed that up by winning the Brown Advisory & Merriebelle Stable Plate Handicap Chase in March, only for Simply The Betts to get the better of her.
Happy Diva returned to action last week at Wetherby, finishing fifth to Hunstman Son in a Listed handicap chase.
Bradbury Star was the last back-to-back winner of Cheltenham’s feature race in November, and Lee says connections are excited by her chances.
She told reporters: “Happy Diva has come out of Wetherby in fine fettle. She will come on plenty for that run, and the Paddy Power Gold Cup is once again the aim.
“We were delighted with Wetherby, because she showed every inch of her usual zest and enthusiasm for the game.
“She is a fantastic horse, and we are lucky to have her. She is so consistent and professional – she is just a pleasure to have in the yard.
“It was very special to see her win the Paddy Power Gold Cup, and hopefully she can go close again.”
