Jimmy Two Times comes through to lead under Declan Lavery© Photo Healy Racing
There was an unfortunate incident at the start of the Grade B I.N.H. Stallion Owners European Breeders Fund Novice Handicap Hurdle Series Final with Fletcher sustaining a fatal injury which of course necessitated his withdrawal. Jimmy Two Times in the end ran out a game winner under amateur rider Declan Lavery. Pleasant Company was the hot favourite, as he bided to bring up a treble for his trainer Willie Mullins and rider Ruby Walsh.
Malcolm Denmark's representative, on debut for Mullins, didn't do much wrong, but at the finish he had to yield by a neck and the same as they left Oscar Knight nine and a half lengths back in fourth. It was Paul Nolan's Fine Article that took the runner-up berth.
Winning trainer Brian Hamilton said: "Believe it or not that was always the plan. The three miles is right up his street, and all he does is stay.
"Declan gave him a brilliant ride. You have to ride him up against the rail to stop him jumping right, and being there you need a bit of luck to get a run. That's pay back for Leopardstown (fell when leading at the last).
"If the ground is not too quick he could go to Punchestown but we'll have to see how he comes out of this. I think he'll improve for another year as he's still immature.
"I'm delighted for Sean (Graham, owner). He had a point-to-point horse with me, and when that was sold on he said he'd buy another one and this it. That's my biggest winner." (AM & EM)
