Gary Carson
Hill wraps up fabulous five-timer for Elliott
Whinney Hill and Harry Swan lead them home
© Photo Healy Racing
Whinney Hill wrapped up another terrific day at Navan for Gordon Elliott when completing a five-time for the Cullentra handler in the bumper.
Harry Swan tracked the leaders on the Jack Hobbs gelding before moving up to dispute early in the straight on the 6/4 favourite.
He edged ahead passing the two pole and despite lugging a bit left when asked for an effort over a furlong from home he soon asserted.
The Gigginstown gelding opened up in the closing stages to post a three-and-a-half length victory over Strong Link
The winner had been runner-up on his track debut at Punchestown last month having also finished second in a point-to-point back in February.
Elliott said: "We knew he had improved plenty from his run.
"He's a nice horse, still green, but he will probably go jumping now."
On five winners on day one of the festival, he added: "Great day - Navan is a lucky track for me and it local to me. Great to come out with five winners."
When asked about the Troytown tomorrow, he said: "We have a great chance and a few (saddles 11 runners) trying!"
(Quotes by Michael Graham)