Al Eile s bid for a record equalling fourth Aintree Hurdle win is back on track following the gelding's impressive win on his comeback run in the Dundalk On-Course Bookmakers Race at Dundalk tonight.
Al Eile was held up by Fran Berry before being produced to lead under two furlongs out, staying on gamely for a three lengths win over Valain
Previously successful in the Aintree Hurdle in 2005, 07 and last year, Al Eile's participation in the '09 renewal was in doubt earlier in the season when he suffered a setback which threatened to rule the gelding out for the season.
However trainer John Queally reported "Al Eile had a bit of soreness in his suspensory ligament and we left him alone for six weeks before gradually bringing him back swimming."
He added "I am relieved following that win but we'll have to see how he is tomorrow. Provided he is ok, we'll head straight to Aintree, as he runs well fresh."
The win was Al Eile's 12th career success and should he win his fourth Aintree Hurdle on April 4, he will join recently deceased Morley Street (winner of the race from 1990-93) as the only other horse to have achieved the impressive feat.
