War Of Attrition s renaissance over hurdles continued with a hard fought victory in the Labrokes.com Boyne Hurdle at Navan today.
The 2006 Gold Cup winner made all in the Grade 2 event under Davy Russell and clung on gamely on the run to the line to deny Mourad by a head.
Mourad, a well backed 11/10 shot, loomed large going to the second last as Russell got to work on War Of Attrition.
The favourite came under pressure before the final flight, however, as War Of Attrition kept up a relentless gallop.
Ruby Walsh got a good tune from his mount on the run-in but he just failed to peg back the veteran.
"It was a good performance today. We'll see how he is after this and take it step by step with him," said winning trainer Mouse Morris.
"We'll see what weight he gets (in the Grand National). He could go for the World Hurdle depending on how he is. It's his last season and he's not going to get abused.
"The World Hurdle looks a one-horse race on the betting. We'll see how he is tomorrow and all options are open for him."
