Hardy Eustace will return this year to defend his crown at the Coral Ascot Hurdle and he is favorite to win. Simon Clare, Coral spokesman, said they are thrilled with both the quality and the quantity of the entries at for the Hurdle and are also delighted Eustace is returning.

However, things will not be easy for last year’s champion and he will have to face a tough group of competitors. Detroit City is almost certain to take part in the race, in attempt to get his career back on track. The five-year-old had a great performance last season winning the Greatwood Handicap Hurdle, the Boylesports International and the Agfa Hurdle.

Jonjo O’Neill has included Brit Insurance Novices’ Hurdle winner Wichita Lineman as well as his stable companion De Soto. Also, Howard Johnson signed up No Refuge, the winner of the 2005 edition of the Ascot Hurdle.

Acambo, Gaspara and last year’s third Lough Derg will run for David Pipe while Paul Nicholls will be responsible for Desert Quest and Gwanako. Nicky Henderson will compete with Afsoun and Altilhar, Cloone River, Kings Quay, Overstrand, Penzance and Pigeon Island complete the field.