Jack Kennedy celebrates his double in Down Royal© Photo Healy Racing
Trainer Gordon Elliott bagged a double at Down Royal when Mustadrik (10/3f) hacked up in the two and a half mile handicap hurdle under young jockey Jack Kennedy.
This was Kennedy's first double on the racetrack proper after being hugely successful in pony racing. He was on board Elliott's Eshtiaal (4/7f) in the preceding race.
Mustadrik, a four-year-old American-bred colt, tracked the leaders before making headway to lead at the third last. He moved clear of the pursuers at the penultimate hurdle and stayed on well to post a 17-length victory. Cousin Bill came in second at 7/1. He was three parts of a length in front of Lord Of Isenay (8/1 from a morning price of 16s). Gold Class completed the placings a neck away in fourth at 16/1.
On asked about race riding after a very successful grounding in pony racing, Jack Kennedy said: "I love it! Gordon has been very good to me. All the lads in the yard have been helping me."
Gordon Elliott added: "I won't be letting him ride for too many others!
"Mustadrik goes to Kilbeggan on Sunday with a mandatory penalty."
