Pete So High is good over the last under Jack Kennedy© Photo Healy Racing
From winning at the likes of Ripon, Lingfield and Brighton in August and September, Pete So High showed commendable versatility to take the www.thurlesraces.ie Maiden Hurdle in sloppy conditions.
On outing number three over flights, the High Chaparral gelding took over two out, and Jack Kennedy's mount went on to dismiss Last Man Standing by five lengths.
Gambled-on Saglawy (8/1 into 7/2) got the second last wrong and he was soon on the back-foot. Willie Mullins' charge ended up a further five lengths back in third.
Favourite Jetez disappointed badly, beaten approaching three out and eventually pulling up.
"it wasn't the strongest race in the world and he just about handled the conditions. Jack (Kennedy) said he wasn't in love with it but whatever handles it best wins today," said successful trainer Gordon Elliott on the Gigginstown House Stud-owned victor.
"He has got his head in front now and we'll see, but he could be a Fred Winter type horse."
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Jetez, trained by Mrs John Harrington, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
R.M. Power, rider of Jetez trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount never travelled on the ground.
(TW & EM)
