Simon Torrens regathers his reins after Grand Soir's mistake at the last © Photo Healy Racing
The I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Novice Hurdle went to expensive point-to-point recruit Grand Soir (6/1) who is starting to get his act together now under Rules.
Bought for £160,000 by owner Derek Kierans after winning at Lingstown for Pat Doyle, the Kilbeggan maiden winner tracked the pace under Simon Torrens before coming through to lead three out at which point Evens favourite Nos Na Gaoithe cut out tamely having been keen throughout. Another Choice challenged on the run to the last but the John McConnell-trained winner, despite getting the final flight wrong, stayed on well to account for that rival by three lengths.
Torrens said: "He is a staying horse and won well the last day. I was concerned about the ground but he seemed to handle it. We went a nice sensible gallop, I was behind the bridle most of the way and it is tough enough work out there.
"He is a bit lazy and behind the bridle but battled away. He keeps finding.
"If you were to ride him on the gallops at home you'd be scratching your head with him but in fairness he comes together at the races and hopefully will be a nice horse going forward. I have a question mark about winter ground as that was plenty soft enough for him.
"No matter what he does over hurdles, he'll be a better chaser as he is a fine big horse and jumps extremely well."
Quotes from Tom Weekes
