RACING: Specular Clears Path for Rooster Booster

Beginning of article

Champion Hurdler Rooster Booster will face an easier task than expected today when he makes his seasonal reappearance in the Tote Bula Hurdle, following the defection of Australian import Specular. The Jonjo O'Neill-trained seven-year-old was bought by J P McManus following his most recent appearance Down Under in June.

However, O'Neill had to rule the gelding out of the extended two-mile contest. He said: 'He knocked himself this morning but hopefully it is nothing too serious.'

That leaves the 2003 Cheltenham Festival hero to face six rivals including the classy Spirit Leader and recent Fighting Fifth Hurdle winner The French Furze.

Rooster Booster scored …