Elliott can see Colombe running over festive period

GERRI Colombe is being readied for a return to action, although Gordon Elliott expects him to have to reach new heights this season if he is to make the frame in the Gold Cup.

- By ALAN MAGEE

GERRI Colombe is being readied for a return to action, although Gordon Elliott expects him to have to reach new heights this season if he is to make the frame in the Gold Cup.

The nine-year-old was second to Galopin Des Champs in the headline Cheltenham event in 2024, but has not been seen for over a year after a stifle injury interrupted his career.

It was not a serious issue but fell at an inopportune time, with the gelding now back in business and aiming for a Christmas comeback ahead of a campaign that his trainer acknowledges will require him to be at his very best.

Elliott said: “He's in good form, he's cantering away this morning. It's probably going to be Christmas realistically before we get him out.

“He'll have an entry at Leopardstown, but whether Tramore might suit him better, we'll see.

“He'd just be ready to start off there. It was a stifle and it just happened at the wrong time of year. It was just bad timing.