Racing

Jezki to return to action in Leopardstown Christmas Hurdle

Jessica Harrington’s eight-year-old not seen since beating rival Hurricane Fly last year

Jezki, ridden by Mark Walsh, beat old rival Hurrican Fly on his last appearance in 2015. Photograph: Inpho/Cathal Noonan
Jezki, ridden by Mark Walsh, beat old rival Hurrican Fly on his last appearance in 2015. Photograph: Inpho/Cathal Noonan
Wed Nov 23 2016 - 11:20

Jezki is set to make his long-awaited return to action in the Christmas Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The winner of eight Grade One races including the 2014 Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham, the JP McManus-owned eight-year-old has not been seen in competitive action since beating old foe Hurricane Fly on his first start over three miles in the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle at Punchestown in April of last year.

Jessica Harrington’s stable star is set to take the staying route this season and is a best priced 14-1 to claim his second Cheltenham Festival success in the World Hurdle next March.

“He is in good form and he will be back at Leopardstown over Christmas for the three-mile race,” said Harrington.

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The Moone-based trainer also provided an update on new recruit Sizing John.

The six-year-old won his first two starts over fences last season before placing behind the brilliant Douvan on three of his next four appearances.

Harrington said: “Sizing John is coming along nicely and I hope to have him out at Christmas as well, or just before.”