San Salvador (Richie Deegan) jumps with Jordans and J J Slevin (mainly hidden)© Photo Healy Racing
The Strings & Things Rated Novice Chase at Listowel was a real triumph for the Joseph O'Brien yard as they were responsible for the first two home. Bred by his mother Anne Marie and owned by the Annus Mirabilis Syndicate San Salvador (9s into 15/2) beat 'neighbour' Jordans (6/4 out to 2/1 favourite) by a length and three parts.
French-import Jordans was beginning for O'Brien, and his sister Sarah here, and both himself and the Richie Deegan-ridden San Salvador swept past the erratic jumping front runner, Air Drop from two out.
On the run-in the older and more experienced San Salvador proved superior.
The 2023 Cheltenham Festival hero Jazzy Matty had to be taken out of proceedings early by Jordan Gainford, and it was unclear whether all was okay with him in the aftermath.
"His jumping came together and Richie said he jumped better. He has always had plenty of ability and got it all together today," said O'Brien stable representative Sean Corby.
"JJ (Slevin) had the pick and went for Jordans. There wasn't much between them as you can see, and they both ran well. Jordans is a French horse who was having his first run for Joseph and had been showing plenty at home. He ran well and hopefully there is more improvement to come with him.
"They are two nice horses."
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer reported to the Raceday Stewards that Gua Du Large (FR) trained by Henry de Bromhead was seen to have blood from both nostrils post race.
D. J. O'Keeffe, rider of Gua Du Large (FR), trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount had burst a blood vessel.
M.J.M O'Sullivan, rider of Jet Setting Jim trained by John Queally, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount had burst a blood vessel.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer reported to the Raceday Stewards that Jet Setting Jim trained by John Queally was seen to have blood at both nostrils post race.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer reported to the Raceday Stewards that Jazzy Matty (FR) trained by Cian Collins was slightly lame post race.
(TW & EM)
