Kennedy doubles up on Galvin in National Hunt Chase

Galvin (7-2) overcame a five-month absence to land the Sam Vestey National Hunt Challenge Cup Novices’ Chase and complete a double for jockey Jack Kennedy after the victory of Black Tears

The seven-year-old was held up for most of the race as Remastered and Next Destination led the way, before creeping into contention coming down the hill.

There were several in with a chance at the final fence, but it was Galvin who had the most left at the business end of the three-and-three-quarter-mile trip to beat Next Destination by a length and a half.

Galvin had been saved for the race after winning over an extended three miles at this track in October.

He had been trained by Elliott, but is being looked after by County Antrim-based Ian Ferguson, who has had a long association with Galvin’s owner Ronnie Bartlett. He bought Galvin for 34,000 euros at the sales in 2017.

Kennedy said: “He travelled very well for most of the race. This race was the plan for a long time, so it’s great that it’s paid off.

“It’s nice for Ian Ferguson, because he pre-trained the horse before he went to Gordon’s.

“He could be a National horse or something along those lines. He has a bit of class and stays very well, so the National could be right up his street.

“When you’re walking out of here in one piece it’s great, but you’re delighted to get a winner, so to get two on the first day is brilliant.”