Twist strikes again in Bellewstown opener Autumn Twist made it three wins from his last four starts, as he battled gamely to take the opener at Bellewstown this evening, the Dickie McGuinness Novice Hurdle. A winner over flights at Killarney in May before disappointing at Listowel, he since got back on track when successful on the level at Ballinrobe. Drifting from 15/8 to 3/1 for this 11-runner contest, the Denis Hogan-trained bay raced in third under Daniel King. Pushed along to go second after two out, the 117-rated victor travelled best to lead before the last, but wasn't fluent over that obstacle, giving another chance to the front-running Mick Collins (11/10f). Soon ridden, he was challenged by the market leader on the run-in, but battled back gamely to beat that rival by half-a-length. The front pair went 10-lengths clear of Chortal (9/4), with that one fading after a mistake two out. "Dan did exactly what he said he was going to do - he was going to let the other two at it and we need a lead because he is a bit starey in front. Man on board gave him a good ride," Hogan remarked. "Lovely attitude this horse. He just does what he has to do and he is honest. "Great for good supporters of mine, Brian and Katie Castle. They couldn't be here, they live across in Scotland. I put this horse to them a few months back and they went with my word. Luckily, he has worked out good. "He'll go to Galway now - I don't know which code, There was a winners' of one hurdle, but that has gone out the window. We can revert to the Flat or even a handicap hurdle. We have loads of options. "He's a good fun horse and he wasn't overly expensive. He was a Godolphin and we got him last November in Newmarket. He had a bit of form in France, he missed a bit of time as well. I love the sire (Golden Horn)." When asked if he targets Goldolphin cast-offs, he replied: "Yeah, they are well bred. They may have some issues but, if we can iron them out, there are races to be won with them. They are affordable for us." STEWARDS REPORT * The Raceday Stewards granted a request from David Harry Kelly, trainer of Footstepstoglory, for an additional ten minutes to present his charge for identification by an IHRB Veterinary Officer in accordance with the provisions of Rule 90(i). Additional reporting by Michael Graham
