Ballyfad makes all to give Elliott across the card double Having landed the opening race of the day at Down Royal half-an-hour earlier, trainer Gordon Elliott completed a quick across the card double when Ballyfad made all to win the TRI Equestrian Maiden Hurdle at Leopardstown. Unbeaten in three previous starts, the Gigginstown House Stud-owned gelding led from flag fall under Jack Kennedy. Pushed along to assert entering the straight, the 7/4 chance kept on strongly to beat favourite Leader D'allier by nine-and-a-half lengths. “He showed a good attitude. We were a bit worried in his bumpers that he looked like he was a bit sluggish in soft ground,” said Elliott. “Jack said he showed plenty of pace there and he was absolutely delighted with him. He seemed to like that ground. “We were worried that he might not be quick enough on it but it was a good performance and we’re very happy. “We’ll get him home and have a chat with Michael and Eddie and see where we go, maybe the DRF.” Paddy Power went 25/1 Ballyfad for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and 20/1 Turners. Additional reporting by Gary Carson.
