River tackles hurdles heat20th November 2012
Saphir River will head to Saturday's valuable Don't Settle For Less "Fixed Brush" Handicap Hurdle at Haydock.
Lucinda Russell had also entered the gelding in a novice chase at the Lancashire track on Friday, and Saphir River has already competed over fences, winning very easily at Uttoxeter earlier this month.
An exciting recruit from France, Saphir River ran over hurdles at the Cheltenham and Aintree Festivals for Michael Scudamore, son of Russell's partner Peter. However, he has changed hands and now belongs to Sandy Seymour, owner of the late Albert Bartlett winner Brindisi Breeze.