Great Field and Jody McGarvey© Photo Healy Racing
Great Field proved a different class to his rivals as he gave Jody McGarvey a first Grade One winner in some style in the Ryanair Novice Chase at Punchestown.
The exuberant front-runner has had a history of taking some serious chances at his fences but after a few untidy leaps early on was generally good over his obstacles today.
Willie Mullins' charge was sent to post a 9/10 shot to maintain his perfect record over fences and made it four from four with the minimum of fuss.
After a slight peck two from home McGarvey gave a shake of the reins and Great Field soon responded.
He was back on the bridle before the final fence and McGarvey drove him clear on the run-in for a comprehensive 11-length success over Ordinary World
McGarvey will always be remembered for his miraculous recovery on the horse at Leopardstown last month but there was no drama today as he blew away his rivals on his first Grade One start.
“It's a good partnership Jody and this horse and they're really getting into a rhythm now,” said Mullins.
“There was much less worry today than other days and that was probably the better ground.
“Jody asked some questions that he wanted to be asked and he answered them. We'll put him away now and concentrate on next year.
“He's a horse with a super engine and plenty of pace. He likes to get on and do the job and he loves jumping. He's obviously got huge talent.
“I think he might have been the second or third of JPs in the race (on his chase debut) and Jody was happy to ride him.
“That suited us as we had other runners in the race and if they're happy with Jody I'm happy with him.
“We'll look at next year when it comes around. I haven't chatted to either JP or Frank and I'm sure they'll have plans. They have a lot of horses and they have to keep them apart as well. It's not just about what I think.
“He's a fantastic. I've been amazed at what he's been doing on his first couple of runs. His antics over the last few fences were taking the shine of his ability away but today when he jumped clear you can really see him for what he is.
“We've always thought he was a fantastic horse and were disappointed when he pulled up at Cheltenham last year.
“He's always a horse that's showed a lot and the day he won in Leopardstown over hurdles was extraordinary.”
When asked about the trainer's title Mullins replied:- “I'm not looking at the gap. I'm looking at trying to win races and have a good week.”
McGarvey added:- "That was absolutely fantastic. He's the real deal the speed he can go and the amount he finds at the end of his races."
