Ben delivers in style

On debut for the stable Ben Dundee followed his fellow Gordon Elliott inmates Pallastor and Samcro into the winner's enclosure when landing a gamble in the Punchestown November Festival Handicap Hurdle.

This was a nice boost for owner Chris Jones after he lost the very talented Mega Fortune at Limerick recently.

Davy Russell was always exuding confidence on the 13/8 favourite (from 7/4 on track and bigger earlier).

Russell's faith in the Beneficial five-year-old was well-justified as he ultimately accounted for Clara Sorrento by two and a quarter lengths.

"He's a nice horse. He did a good bit of work with us a couple of weeks ago. We fancied him and thankfully he won," said Elliott.

"Chris deserved it as he had a bit of bad luck lately with Mega Fortune. He's a big supporter of the yard so it's nice to repay him with that winner."

When asked if he could be a Coral Cup horse Elliott replied:- "Possibly or the Martin Pipe or something like that would do me grand!

"We'll see what happens to him after today and we'll mind him."

The Stewards enquired into the running and riding of Waaheb (USA), placed sixth, ridden by B.J. Geraghty, and trained by C.Roche.

Evidence was heard from the rider and the trainer's representative, Mr. Frank Berry. B.J. Geraghty, stated that his instructions were to sit where he travelled and get a bit of room as his mount doesn't jump brilliantly.

In the race itself his horse always found the pace too quick and was flat to the boards from the start.

He rode his horse right on the inner to keep him on the best of the ground between hurdles.

He stated that he nursed his horse throughout but that everything was happening too quick for the horse.

He applied his whip on the turn-in and again in the straight but the horse just plugged away as he had no more to give.

Frank Berry, representing C.Roche trainer, confirmed the instructions given.

He stated that the horse was a ten year old and an average jumper. He doesn't move very well and is mostly trained from a swimming pool nowadays.

He stated that the ground was not an issue for the horse as he acts on any type of going but his ideal trip is probably a little further.

He expressed himself satisfied with the ride given.

The Stewards also received a report from the Turf Club Veterinary Officer who stated that Waaheb (USA) was post race normal.

Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards noted the explanations offered.

(GC & EM)