Martin Pipe's determination to land a third Champion Hurdle was underlined today when it was revealed he has entered no fewer than eight horses for the race.
His 1997 winner Make A Stand heads the octet engaged in the Cheltenham event, which the trainer also landed with Granville Again in 1993.
Pick of the stable's team according to the bookmakers is Mr Cool, beaten just once in six starts over hurdles and rated a 20-1 chance for the Champion by William Hill.
Pipe's website reveals that he has also put Auetaler, Wahiba Sands, Rodock, Seebald, The French Furze and Hit And Run in the big race on the opening day of the National Hunt Festival.
Cesarewitch winner Heros Fatal is among seven entries for the Bonusprint Stayers' Hurdle, which Pipe won with Balasani in 1994 and Cyborgo two years later.
Other possibles for the March 15 race are Deano's Beeno, Upgrade, Galant Moss, Wahiba Sands, Polar Champ and Maid Equal.
Full entries for both Grade One Cheltenham contests are due to be announced tomorrow.