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John O'Riordan

John O'Riordan

The Insider makes it two from two over hurdles for Elliott

Fri 26th Aug 2022, 17:02

The Insider makes it two from two with Down Royal win The Insider makes it two from two with Down Royal win
© Photo Healy Racing

The Insider followed up his debut win at Killarney when maintaining his unbeaten record over flights in the Hovis 3Y0 Hurdle at Down Royal.

A moderate performer on the flat, with just the one placing from 11 starts, the son of Elzaam has looked a different horse since switching codes.

Having tracked the long-time leader Surac for much of the race, Davy Russell produced his charge with a challenge two out.

For a period moment, it looked as though hurdling debutant Bringbackmemories would sweep by both horses but inexperience proved his undoing in the latter stages.

The Insider found more under Russell and a good jump at the final flight saw the pair stride clear for a comfortable victory.

Gordon Elliott said: "It was a rough race and a few horses got very keen, but Davy was kind of in the box seat and settled and his experience counted.

"It was messy and he got a nice run of the race and it worked out well.

"He's a horse that is keen enough at home, but look he is two from two over hurdles and I think he is well handicapped on the Flat. He's a nice fun horse and he will definitely win again on the Flat.

"I'd imagine he would head to the Flat now. I wouldn't be sure if he would be good enough to win one of those Graded races. I'd say that could be his level."

Additional reporting by Michael Graham

1st
6/4Fav
Tote €2.50 €1.10
2nd
2.25L
9/1
€2.50
3rd
7L
5/2
€1.30
4th
14L
14/1
About John O'Riordan
John has worked for the Press Association since 2022. He also writes a weekly column for The Irish Field and is a regular contributor to the Irish Racing Yearbook. He has previously written for the Racing Post, Irish Examiner and Irish Daily Mirror. He has been involved in racing for over three decades; having experience as a syndicate member, sole owner and breeder.