Franciscan Rock (yellow) © Photo Healy Racing
Having enjoyed the biggest win of his career aboard Stuzzikini in the Troytown Chase at Navan last weekend, Gavin Brouder enjoyed another Sunday winner at a high-profile meeting when partnering Franciscan Rock to land the Pertemps Handicap Hurdle qualifier at Punchestown.
Backed from 22s into 12/1 before the off, the Fame And Glory gelding only had a maiden hurdle win to his name before today but was placed in a Grade 1 over course and distance last year and was a creditable fifth in the Coral Cup in March.
Waited with in mid-division as stablemate Whatsavailable made the running, the seven-year-old moved into contention two out and led entering the straight. Strongly pressed by Karl Des Tourelles after the last, the winner just had enough in reserve to fend off that rival by half a length.
Trainer Mouse Morris said: “The horses have been running well for the last couple of months and it’s nice to get a winner for the O’Flynns who have been with me for years and are lovely people. They are salt of the earth.
“He ran well in Cheltenham last season and also in a Grade 1 here.
“He’s qualified to run in the Final but it’s a long time between now and March.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
