November 6 – Hereford – Bonttay – 70
They went a brisk gallop in this mares’ only handicap and the winner, well backed beforehand, eventually came good after looking in trouble at several moments during the 2m journey. Clearly well suited by coming off a strong-run contest, Fergal O’Brien’s mare looks in line for another fruitful campaign. Of the rest, both Puffin Bay and Georgi Girl are worth keeping on side next time, in particular the latter who probably got to the front too soon before fading after the last.
November 7 – Fairyhouse – Imagine 74
An above average beginners chase containing many fine, long-term prospects and it went the way of a horse who was well schooled, and more importantly, was a lot sharper over his fences at the trip. Once assuming command, Gordon Elliott’s inmate never looked like relinquishing the lead and with the time figure good and all the ‘right’ horse behind him, this performance goes down as a thoroughly pleasing start to his new vocation. The runner-up, Inothewayurthinkin, deserves a special mention as he did best of those who were held up off the pace and he will know more next, especially over further. There were also good runs from Pinkerton and Sandor Clegane in what should turn out to be a race worth following.
November 9 – Clonmel – Farren Glory – 65
This looked a good opportunity for Gordon Elliott’s gelding having outclassed in a Grade 2 when last seen and having made most of the running, he duly lived up to expectations. Despite being a little novicey at some of his hurdles, he posted a very smart speed figure and he looks the type who will be seen to even better advantage when stepped up in trip.
November 9 – Newbury – Galop De Chasse – 63
The novices’ handicap chase won by Inch House was a very good race of its kind but pride of place on the same card went the way of the 2m4f handicap won by Venetia Williams’ inmate. Setting a good even gallop from the start, the seven-year-old got into a lovely rhythm and when momentarily threatened by Kandoo Kid over the final half a mile, he readily found enough in reserve. Although likely to be raised in the ratings subsequently, the numbers he posted suggest he should be more than capable of defying his new mark. The runner-up too should also pay to follow as he pulled 32 lengths clear of the third.
November 10 – Down Royal – Brighterdaysahead – 71
Well regarded and winner of her two previous starts, this was the day when Gordon Elliott’s filly really came of age, clocking the sort of time normally associated with Graded performers. Still a little bit novicey at her hurdles, she has room for improvement in that department but there is no denying she has a fair engine and she should take even higher rank among her piers this season.
November 11 – Gowran Park – Beckett Rock – 66
The opening novice chase winner Harmonya Maker could have easily gone onto this list but instead we would like to draw your attention to the novice hurdle won by Henry De Bromhead’s gelding. Making his debut i what appeared a decent contest on paper beforehand, the son of Kayf Tara impressed with the way he stayed on in the latter stages and in recording a much quicker time than the second division – by ten seconds – he marked himself down as a recruit of some promise. Likely to prove difficult to beat in a winners’ of one next time, Graded races then beckon for this talented four-year-old.
November 12 – Naas – Slade Steel – 70
A good card at the Co Meath venue and the stand out performer was Henry De Bromhead’s gelding in the opening hurdle race. The well backed King Of Kingsfield ensured the gallop was honest from the start and having tracked the market leader throughout, the son of Telescope came through strongly at the death to record a facile success. Sixteen seconds quicker than the conditions hurdle won by Smooth Tom overall, his final circuit was also five seconds better than the better race on paper so it’s safe to draw to the conclusion this fella is a very smart prospect in the making. Easily up to Graded level on this evidence, it would come as a surprise if he is not campaigned accordingly.