Semi-retired 13yo wins on reappearance run

Laid Back Luke defied his 13 years, a 769-days absence, top weight and 40/1 odds to win the Easter Festival 3rd-5th April Handicap Hurdle at Fairyhouse today, scoring for his adoring trainer Sheila Lavery and jockey Robbie Colgan.

The son of Quws had raced previously at Thurles in January 2019 and today reappeared in fine fettle following a two-year spell in semi-retirement, as he made the running under Colgan.

Laid Back Luke was passed by both Mister Butler and Goulane Jessie between the final two flights, at which point he appeared beaten, but rallied gamely to retake the lead on the run-in, eventually beating Mister Butler by two and a half lengths.

Delighted Lavery, whose team is gearing up for the flat season in the coming weeks, later reported “we had semi-retired him but during the summer Robbie (Colgan) took him back into work even though we were so busy.

“I take no credit for anything as Robbie has done everything with him.

“He is very ironically named - he isn't nasty or anything but is a character. He is really difficult in the parade ring and today we had to get permission to go out early.

“He is the hardest horse to ride at home because he ducks and dives and spooks but he has been such a servant.”

She added “we didn't particularly want him carrying top weight, we're having a bit of fun with him but were so unfortunate as he was to run in Limerick three times and they were cancelled.

“I've no idea what we'll do now. We should retire him and retire Robbie from the jumps as the Flat season is starting soon! That was so exciting and we'll enjoy today.”

Quotes from Gary Carson