CHELTENHAM NEWS

Bailey eyeing Cheltenham glory

Kim Bailey believes his Cheltenham-bound team, which boasts Imperial Aura, is “undoubtedly” the strongest he has taken to the Festival.

Bailey enjoyed a hugely successful trip to Prestbury Park in 1995 as Alderbrook and Master Oats delivered the Champion Hurdle and Gold Cup respectively.

The Cotswolds trainer returns to Cheltenham this year with his sights set firmly on further glory and a very impressive team in tow.

Imperial Aura, who won the no defunct novices' handicap chase last year, is a serious contender in the Ryanair Chase, while First Flow offers interest for the Betway Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Younevercall runs in the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle and could be joined by Vindication, although the Gold Cup still remains an option for the latter.

Bailey said: “I've never been one for running horses at Cheltenham unless they had a reason for going there.

“This year is undoubtedly my strongest team, (and) Imperial Aura was always going to be at the front of the house.

“We've been steadily building up towards this. It's great that it's coming to fruition – and now they've got to try to prove a point.”