Cheltenham boost for Limestone

Limestone Lad's chances of making Cheltenham have been boosted by a quick recovery from a cough.

The much-loved Irish horse missed his planned preparation race at Navan last Sunday, sparking fears that he could miss next month's Festival.

But Michael Bowe, son of trainer James Bowe, said on Monday that the 11-year-old was progressing well.

Bowe added that a decision will be taken on whether to go to Cheltenham by the end of the week.

Limestone Lad, who has 35 wins to his name, is the second-favourite for the Stayers' Hurdle behind Baracouda.

Despite his prolific winning record, Limestone Lad has never won outside of Ireland and has not had much luck where Cheltenham is concerned.

He was beaten a length by Bacchanal in the 2000 Stayers' Hurdle and his chances the following year were wiped out by the Foot and Mouth epidemic.

Twelve months ago the horse suffered a back injury and missed out on Cheltenham and it would be a cruel blow to have him absent again.