Blue digs deep in Limerick opener Kurasso Blue just prevailed after a terrific duel with Its Bilbo in the opening AOS Security Hurdle at Limerick this afternoon. Gordon Elliott’s charge had finished fifth on his first outing for the yard at Naas last month and stepped forward from that run to bag a second win over hurdles. Jordan Gainford won the early battle for the lead on the Masked Marvel gelding and he jumped particularly well throughout. 5/6 shot Its Bilbo came to join the front-runner going to the second last and had a narrow advantage over that flight. Kurasso Blue answered the call gamely though and just about got back to the front from the last, maintaining a narrow advantage to the line for a head success at odds of 9/2. The winner had been bought by Robcour after winning at Auteuil last September. “He rallied well on the run-in but is still a big baby who has a lot of strengthening up to do,” said Gainford. "The main thing was that we went a gallop, as he isn't quick but stays and has a good attitude. He flicks his toe but there is a little ease in the ground today and that suited." (Quotes by Tom Weekes)
