Championship chasing Kennedy completes four-timer

Jack Kennedy has taken Down Royal by storm recently and today the jockeys' championship-leader completed a four-timer in the Aspall Handicap Chase, on the Ian Donoghue-trained St Denis's Well (10/11f).

Kennedy completed a four-timer at the northern venue last November 10 and a treble - including the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Champion Chase, the following day and while he bypassed the St Stephen's Day fixture, today returned winning the opening three races for trainer Gordon Elliott.

The Gold Cup-winning 24-year-old rider, who has endured five leg breaks in a hugely successful career, steered St Denis's Well to win at Navan on Saturday and while he today justified odds-on favouritism, was forced to work hard on the run-in to hold both Monoxide and Soldier Of Honour

Trainer Donoghue, a brother of leading jockey Keith Donoghue, reported “I don't know what he beat today, they were an average bunch and while he's no world-beater, he's still weak and raw and will come on again. Jack was as cool as a cucumber on him.

"I think we'll stay chasing over 2m4f to three miles although will probably get a small break. He does get through that ground, but he'll go on better ground."

Today's four-timer moves jockey Kennedy to 97 winners this term, 19 clear of Paul Townend at the head of the championship, as he chases a first title.

Quotes from Michael Graham