Sensulano has Festival options

Williams’ versatile mare proved her stamina at Ascot.

Noel Williams will keep his Cheltenham Festival options open for Sensulano, following her fine performance as runner-up to Magic Of Light at Ascot.

The seven-year-old proved she stays three miles in Saturday’s bet365 Mares’ Hurdle, and will therefore have three entries.

Williams will choose between the Festival Mares’ Hurdle and the Close Brothers Novices’ Handicap Chase, both over two and a half miles, and the Ultima Handicap Chase, over three miles one furlong

“She’s come out of the race well and I’m very happy with her,” said the Oxfordshire trainer.

“I was delighted with the run. She was beaten by a better mare, who’s a strong stayer.

“She’s got an entry in the Mares’ Hurdle at the Festival, but she’s unlikely to run in that. She’ll also have an entry in the Close Brothers and the Ultima probably. Apart from that, I haven’t thought any further.

“If any of them looks like the best race for her, and she gets in at the Festival, we might well run her in one of those. But it’s not the be-all and end-all – if it’s not right we’ll look for something else.”

Sensulano’s latest effort, at a trip of almost three miles, has given Williams extra scope to plot her campaign.

“She’s come out of it very well, so we’re pleased,” he said.

“She’s (already) shown she’s good enough at two and a half, and she definitely got the trip on Saturday.

“I’m not making any excuses – Magic Of Light is just a very good mare. It was no disgrace to finish second to her.”

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