Well backed Express bought for Cheltenham success

/ Editor / 04 March 2007 / Leave a Comment

Berings Express, who has been well supported for the Champion Bumper at The Cheltenham Festival on March 14, has been bought by Derrick Smith.

The owner, known better for his connection to flat racing, bought the horse earlier this week and will race at the Festival for trainer Nicolas Clement before being sent to Jonjo O'Neil.

"Berings Express is a nice type and we have given him plenty of time," said Clement.

"We have always thought he might turn into a decent jumper. I am very happy with the preparation of the horse and he has improved all the time.

"I have never been to Cheltenham before and am delighted to go to the racecourse for the first time with a horse who has a leading chance."

Having been supported to small money at 250, the gelding is currently the joint-second favourite for the Champion Bumper at 11 alongside Mad Fish. The Jessica Harrington-trained Cork All Star currently heads the betting on 7.

Irish-trained runners have won the National Hunt flat race in five of last six runnings of the extended two-mile contest.