Three-horse race a gift for Minella Emperor Just three lined up for Cork’s Irish Stallion Farms EBF Novice Hurdle over three miles and owner-ridden Minella Emperor was successful on his seasonal debut. The 9/4 second favourite, trained by Emmet Mullins, had won the bumper on this car a year ago and was second in a Pertemps Qualifier at Haydock in February. The Shantou gelding took over in front before the third-last and scored readily by 12 lengths from Siege Of Carthage. "Donagh Meyler gave him a great spin at Haydock last season, so I got his words of wisdom and he gave me a good steer,” said jockey Michael O’Neill. "I didn't expect this but, from the third-last, I knew we were going to be ok. "We have no idea what plans are, so we'll see what Emmet says and he is a three-mile horse. He is quite small, but is quite happy to motor away and he'll plug away while the weather isn't too bad." "I ride him out every day and this is a labour of love." Regarding Minella's Emperor's £3,500 purchase, registered to one 'S. Claus' at Thoroughbid Xmas 2024 Sale, on December 18, O'Neill revealed "After buying the horse, Emmet asked who he should put down as purchaser, so I replied saying I didn't mind. "He put down 'S. Claus'! "He was bought as a practice horse for me to ride but it has really worked out - Emmet is a genius." Additional reporting by Tom Weekes
