William Butler and Josh Halford © Photo Healy Racing
Gordon Elliott saddled the winner of the bumper run in memory of his late uncle for a third successive year but not as most would have expected as William Butler caused a 25/1 surprise in the Willie Elliott Memorial (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race.
The Cullentra trainer was also represented by the odds-on Ma Jacks Hill who fought out a protracted battle in the straight with Trasna Na Pairce
However, the pair were overhauled in the closing stages as William Butler really got motoring inside the final 150 yards under Josh Halford.
The Yeats gelding had a length and a half to spare over Trasna Na Pairce at the line with Ma Jacks Hill a further three-quarters of a length away in third.
Elliott said, "Not the one we expected but it's not the first time it's happened to us.
“He showed a good attitude and galloped away to the line so we're happy enough.
“He's a grand horse, he's a baby, and it's great that he won.
“I'd imagine he'll go for another bumper. John Doyle is a big supporter of the yard so it's great for him.”
On Jack Kennedy's earlier serious injury he added:- “It's heartbreaking obviously for poor Jack to break his leg again. It puts a dampener on the day but that's the game we're in.”
Quotes by Gary Carson
