Samcro set to swerve Cheltenham

Connections say Samcro is unlikely to head to the Cheltenham Festival after disappointing in the Ryanair Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The Gordon Elliott-trained six-year-old won his first eight races but his current losing streak was extended to four at Leopardstown on Saturday.

Samcro had been expected to contest the Champion Hurdle but Eddie O'Leary, racing manager for owners Gigginstown, says a tilt at the Cheltenham race now looks unlikely.

Samcro finished eight lengths behind winner Sharjah in the Ryanair Hurdle as he came in fifth and O'Leary feels he may not run again this season.

“It clearly wasn't Samcro's running,”he said, as reported by the Daily Mail. “I'd say he's very doubtful for the Champion Hurdle. We'll try to get him back right first. The rest of the season doesn't bother us. We'll try to find out what's amiss.

“The Samcro of today and his last run is nothing near the Samcro we had last season. He'll go to the vets for a MOT. If we don't find something wrong we're all in trouble.”