Faugheen Novice Chase: Gerri Colombe seals her Festival certificate with Limerick glory | Racing news

Gerri Colombe maintained her undefeated record with a landslide victory in the Guinness Faugheen rookie chase in Limerick.

A winner in the scoring field a few years ago, the six-year-old has since overcome two hurdles, two beginner hurdles and a beginner chase Gordon Elliott and was the most favorite student 4-5 steps up First Grade for Limerick’s St Stephen’s Day feature.

Gerri Colombe was opposed by four opponents, three of whom were coached by Willie Mullins, with a 6-4 Kilcruit chance appearing to be the first streak ahead of Adamantly Chosen and Authorized Art.

For a short time, Kilcruit looked ready to put in a race with the strong-moving Gerri Colombe from the start at home, but his efforts dwindled and in the end, Adamantly Chosen took the ball. won the silver medal – defeated four and- a quarter length by the decisive winner.

With steady horse rider Jack Kennedy racing in Leopardstown and Davy Russell recently retired, Jordan Gainford entered the plum race in a Gerri Colombe and was delighted to claim his first success in the Irish First Class, after was beaten by Farouk D’alene in this race last year.

Gainford, who catapulted Shark Hanlon’s Hewick to glory at the American Grand National, said: “It’s unbelievable and first and foremost I want to thank Gordon and Robcour (the owners). Gordon’s, he took care of me and he gave me the confidence to get me up to where I am today.

“Last year’s failure was something I don’t want to happen again and a big thank you to Jack Kennedy as he told me about him and how to ride him.

“His jump is excellent and for him to do what he did today is great. Plans will be left to Gordon but what he loves is the soft ground and he’s got it. get that today.”

Elliott’s assistant, Ian ‘Busty’ Amond, said: “It’s been great for Jordan and with the likes of Davy retiring it opens the door for these boys. They have to step up and do it. and he made it, but he also had a horse.

“He loved that ground, Jordan said he was incredible when he danced and did it very well. He was comfortable but kept doing what he was doing and is now six out of six. age.

“It’s been great for Robcour, who has invested a lot of money in the game, so it’s important to get days like this.

“He’s the right horse to go forward, he’s won First Class and wouldn’t mind stepping up three miles, but let’s see what Gordon thinks.”