Galway Results Tue, 8th Oct, 2024

See also » Gilligan's Buddy One lands the odds on chasing debut
He jumped great, he was clever and shortened when he had to,. I was delighted with him the whole way and Jack was grand on him, he didn't panic at any stage and let him pop. He winged a couple of fences. I'd say he gave a heave going to the second last but then class just pulled him through. He winged the last. I think he's only about 70 or 75 percent fit so he's going to come on a lot from that. It was a lovely opportunity to start him off over fences. Where we go from here, I don't know yet but obviously our main aim is to try and get back to Cheltenham. We won't over-race him but we'll get some good races into him. He'll definitely face stiffer opposition through the winter but that was nice, a lovely experience for him and especially here at home next door to us. The ground is in absolutely fantastic conditions. It's lovely, a three-runner race at home, but I'm glad it's over with in one way. When you've a horse like this and he's your best horse, and he's owned by very good owners, you just want to get this out of the way and progress from here and see where he brings us. I was only looking at today and today's opportunity was lovely for him. He'll get another before he goes back to Cheltenham in November. I'd like to keep it local and keep him off the truck, keep the travelling limit. I'm not sure if there's a race here later in the month but if there is he'll more than likely come back here. Paul John Gilligan, trainer

A steeplechase for five years old and upwards that have not won more than one steeplechase and have not won a Grade 1, Grade 2 or Grade 3 weight-for-age steeplechase
Weights - 11st 3lbs Mares allowed 7lbs
Penalties - Penalty - Winner of a steeplechase 7lb extra