Jetson and Davy Russell© Photo Healy Racing
Jezki's half brother Jetson spoiled the party for Quevega at Punchestown today, ending the star mare's domination of the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle when causing a 20/1 upset for trainer Jessica Harrington and jockey Davy Russell.
Russell, on just his second ride and first winner for Harrington, moved the son of Oscar to the front at the third last and entering the home straight held a clear lead over the chasing pack.
Quevega had been held up behind the leaders by Ruby Walsh and while she did improve her position gradually from the second last flight, was under pressure to do so. Jetson held a clear lead at the final flight and although Quevega gave chase on the run-in, the Harrington horse held on for a length and a quarter success over the never nearer runner-up.
Harrington later revealed “we ran him here as there was no other race for him and I thought he might nick a place but didn't believe in my wildest dreams that he'd win! It's absolutely fantastic but a bit of a surprise.
“I said to Davy (Russell) that he has no chance but that he stays really well and is tough so to make plenty use of him. He never missed a beat over his hurdles, loves that ground and only comes to himself in the spring and was in great form today. That's only Davy's second ride for me and his first winner so I better employ him a few more times!”
Jetson was ending Quevega's nine race winning streak and also ended her four year winning run in the Grade 1 contest.
Both Harrington and Russell were completing doubles on the day, having had winners with, respectively, Macnicholson and Mallowney earlier.
By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson
