Its On The Line and Derek O Connor© Photo Healy Racing
Veteran Billaway failed in his five-timer attempt in Naas' QuinnBet Hunters Chase today and while winner Its On The Line s performance as 8/13 favourite made for grim viewing, held on for victory in a thrilling hunters' finish.
Runner-up in March's Cheltenham Open Hunters Chase, Its On The Line raced lethargically and off-the-bridle under Derek O'Connor throughout today's race but moved to chase leader Ramillies in the final mile and eventually led at the last.
At that point, 12 year old Billaway - winner of the 2022 Cheltenham race, began to close despite appearing hopelessly outpaced in a 25-lengths-third at the second-last.
Billaway finished faster on the run-in but was outfoxed by wily Its On The Line, which held on by a head.
Early leader Ramillies tired to a walk on the run-in and was the only other finisher - in an 86-lengths-third.
Winning trainer Emmet Mullins reported “Its On The Line isn't good for the heart but there’s loads of ability in there, it's just a matter of coaxing it out of him.
“He looked a sitting duck for the fast-finishing horse (Billaway), but picked up and went again. He’s a tough cookie and hopefully cheek pieces might help for the big day (at Cheltenham) the next day. He was second there last year and will go there again.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
