The Jazz Singer and Paul Townend© Photo Healy Racing
There was a dramatic conclusion to the Barclay 20th Anniversary Rated Novice Chase at Down Royal today as The Jazz Singer was the chief beneficiary from the final fence exit of challenging Bull Ride to win for trainer Colin McBratney.
Nine to ten favourite Static Jack seemed to throw away his chance by hanging left in the home straight as both The Jazz Singer and Bull Ride swept past approaching the final fence. The Jazz Singer, under a ground-saving ride along the inside by Paul Townend, held a narrow lead at the final obstacle but was left clear by the dramatic exit of Bull Ride, who blundered Brian O’Connell out of the saddle.
On the run-in, The Jazz Singer maintained a clear lead over Static Jack, who finished his race alongside the stands’ side rail, to score a four lengths win.
Following the race McBratney stated “they just went a nice steady gallop and Paul said he jumped very well and he has done it well.
"Paul said he wasn't out of second gear and hadn't even asked him (at the final fence) and said he was cantering the whole way.
"He's a hard little horse to get fit but there are plenty of options for him now. He will stay a novice now to get a bit of experience and could go for a handicap at the end of the summer. He actually wants fast ground and has a great attitude."
By Tom Weekes, quotes from Michael Graham
