Pinyon Jay and Jack Kennedy with the Call It What You Like Syndicate © Photo Healy Racing
A step up in trip on hurdling debut suited Pinyon Jay well in The Linden Foods Maiden Hurdle at Down Royal.
The French-bred gelding brought up a double for Gordon Elliott and Jack Kennedy after the success of Air Drop in race two.
Kennedy sent him on before two out in this 2m4f assignment and, although he wandered before the last, the nicely backed 9/4 shot stayed on well to draw seven lengths clear. Harley Street the even-money favourite, could make no impression on him in second. Charlie's Dilemma (10/1 - 15/2) was another three and a-half lengths back in third.
Assistant trainer Lisa O'Neill said: "It has all clicked for him today.
"He showed plenty of ability in bumpers, he was just a bit raw and green and I think he showed that again today. He wandered a little bit, but I think Jack really made his mind up for him.
"I think there is plenty more to come from him.
"They are a great bunch of owners (Call It What You Like Syndicate) and I rode winners in those colours years ago. They are local to Gordon, so it is great success for them."
