overstrand run continues

Overstrand - possible for Champion Hurdle.

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By Martin Kelly, PA Sport

Overstrand has become a standing dish in fiercely competitive betting heats this winter and just seven days after a huge run at Newbury, he turned out again to plunder the £80,000 Betfair Handicap Hurdle at Ascot.

Winner of the William Hill Handicap Hurdle earlier in the season, the eight-year-old took the runner-up spot in the totesport Trophy last weekend before lugging top weight to success in the opening contest.

Sam Jones sent the 9-1 shot into the lead at the second-last and his mount found plenty under pressure to hold Nation State and Flying Falcon by three-quarters of a length and two lengths respectively.

Trainer Dr Richard Newland said: "He is fantastically tough. He worked in mid-week and I couldn't believe how well he went so I had to run him.

"I bought him cheaply at the sales and he has always been a good horse but has really come to himself.

"He is in the Coral Cup, Champion Hurdle and the World Hurdle and we will go home and discuss which race to go for. It is a step up to Championship races but he has earned his place."