Kalypso'chance back on track with Monksfield triumph

Kalypso’chance continued Gordon Elliott’s good record in the 2m4f John Lynch Carpets Monksfield Novice Hurdle and completed a double on the day for the yard at Navan.

The Gigginstown-owned gelding won twice in bumpers last season but was beaten at 1/5 on his hurdle debut at Down Royal earlier this month.

The son of Masked Marvel showed the benefit of that experience in this Grade 3 event, leading approaching he final flight and staying on well in the closing stages to fend off the challenge of The Big Clubman by a length and a quarter. Frankie John couldn’t find any extra on the run-in a further six and a half lengths back in third.

Elliott said, “We were disappointed in him the last day, but I'd say just two miles was too short and a lot of ours just needed the run at that stage.

"I was probably trying to be clever splitting them all up in Down Royal.

"I was nervous of running him back so quick but, in fairness, it was the right decision. He was tough. In fairness to him, he was a different horse there today. You could see the way he was travelling with his head down, he was happy. In Down Royal, his head was in the air and he never jumped.

"He had good bumper form last year and probably tapered off a bit at the end of the year, but that was back to more like it today.

"I'd say that's it (his trip) and he could go further as well.

"Maybe straight to Naas because he's after having two quick runs.

"Like most of those Gigginstown horses, he was bought to be a big chaser. I'd say whatever he does over hurdles, it is going to be chasing down the road."

Quotes by Michael Graham