Mr Hendricks, far side, driven into the last© Photo Healy Racing
Mr Hendricks held on by an ever-diminishing three parts of a length at the end of the three mile beginners' chase in Navan.
The seven-year-old son of Milan unleashed his challenge at the second last. Jockey Robbie Power asked for a big jump in the lead at the last and his mount got away from it well to fend off Lord Royal who kept closing in the latter stages.
The winner had been as big as 25/1 in the morning before being returned at 10/1. Runner-up Lord Royal was easy to back at 5/2 out from 7/4. The Big Dog the 11/8 favourite, was outgunned in third beaten five lengths by the victor.
Jessica Harrington said: “He was very good. He’s been crying out for three miles and he has to go left-handed.
“He jumped out violently to the left at Punchestown last time and yet going left-handed he’s dead straight. Three miles around here is a fair test.
“He won his maiden hurdle around this time last year and hasn’t won since but he’s only growing into himself now. He’s an enormous horse, over 17 hands, jumped well and Robert is delighted with him.
“A long time ago I said the Midlands National (at Uttoxeter) so he could easily end up there. I have a good record in the race with novices. Miss Orchestra (1998) and Intelligent (2003) won it and Badgerlaw was second.”
The Stewards requested a report from Mrs John Harrington, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Mr Hendricks, placed first, as compared with its most recent run. Niall Amond, authorised representative for Mrs. John Harrington reported that their charge seems to have a preference for going left handed and has previously won here. Furthermore, He added that the only reason they could attribute to the very disappointing performance at Punchestown on the 31st of December was going right-handed. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation given.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
