Grozni and Philip Byrnes pictured on their way to victory© Photo Healy Racing
Grozni made it three from three for the father and son team of Charles and Philip Byrnes at Downpatrick this afternoon, as he stayed on best to claim the Dennison Commercial Opportunity Beginners Chase.
Third on recent starts at Galway and Tramore respectively, the Saddler Maker seven-year-old was sent off a 7/2 chance (from 5s) in the colours of Cathal Byrnes, son of the winning trainer.
After racing in third, the bay victor had plenty to do on the approach to the second last but closed on the front pair when ridden from the final fence.
He came with his challenge between horses inside the final 150 yards and soon forged to the front, going on to score comfortably by three-and-a-quarter lengths.
Outsider Typical Thomas (33/1) ran a huge race to take second, while Weddell Sea (12/1) was another half-a-length away in third.
Returned the 6/5 favourite, Rexem attempted to make all but had no more to offer once headed inside the final furlong, eventually finishing a disappointing fourth.
"They went a proper gallop. The plan was to try and make it, but sure he couldn't get there early," the winning handler, who was earlier on the mark with Dubeyeracingcraic and Reverend Hubert said.
"I think the front two softened up one another and made it easy for him after the last.
"He stays three miles so I felt if he could hang in there at all, he would have a squeak coming up the hill.
"He's in the sales at Doncaster. I don't know whether he will go or not, I wouldn't want to lose him. He's a real fun horse and still has a nice mark over hurdles. He is capable of running in really good races.
"He's such an honest, genuine horse."
STEWARDS REPORT
M.P. O'Connor, rider of Gentleman Joe (GB), trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount went to run out at the third fence and caught the wing.
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
