Buddy One and Jack Gilligan. © Photo Healy Racing
Local punters were in full voice after the Paul Gilligan trained Buddy One made a winning debut over fences in the Guinness Chase at Galway.
Given the conditions of this winners' race, the high-class 154-rated hurdler was receiving upwards of 7lb from his two opponents here.
Last seen when fourth in a Grade 1 hurdle at Punchestown, the 2/7f didn't have to be at his peak in order to justify those short odds.
Tracking leader Flanking Maneuver over the first couple of fences, the Jack Gilligan ridden market leader led after the third.
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Buddy One makes winning start to life over fences at Galway
Jumping well in the main, the seven-year-old was headed by the latter on the approach to two out, dropping a few lengths off the lead.
However, once shaken up to retake the initiative entering the straight, Buddy One quickly asserted, going clear to score by seven-and-a-half-length. Another Choice stayed on late to claim the runner-up spot for Matthew and James Smith.
“He jumped great, he was clever and shortened when he had to,” said Paul Gilligan.
“I was delighted with him the whole way and Jack was grand on him, he didn't panic at any stage and let him pop. He winged a couple of fences.
“I'd say he gave a heave going to the second last but then class just pulled him through. He winged the last.
“I think he's only about 70 or 75 percent fit so he's going to come on a lot from that. It was a lovely opportunity to start him off over fences.
“Where we go from here, I don't know yet but obviously our main aim is to try and get back to Cheltenham.
“We won't over-race him but we'll get some good races into him. He'll definitely face stiffer opposition through the winter but that was nice, a lovely experience for him and especially here at home next door to us.
“The ground is in absolutely fantastic conditions. It's lovely, a three-runner race at home, but I'm glad it's over with in one way.
“When you've a horse like this and he's your best horse, and he's owned by very good owners, you just want to get this out of the way and progress from here and see where he brings us.
“I was only looking at today and today's opportunity was lovely for him. He'll get another before he goes back to Cheltenham in November.
“I'd like to keep it local and keep him off the truck, keep the travelling limit. I'm not sure if there's a race here later in the month but if there is he'll more than likely come back here.”
Additional reporting by Gary Carson.
