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Harry Fry experienced a mix of joy and relief as he witnessed his stable star, Gidleigh Park, regain his form with a commanding victory in the Fitzdares Lightning Novices’ Chase at Windsor.
The seven-year-old has consistently impressed his trainer, having secured a Chepstow bumper win and triumphing in his first three hurdle outings. However, his performance faltered last season when he finished sixth in the Albert Bartlett race at Cheltenham Festival.
Anticipation was high for his transition to chasing at Kempton in November, where he was favored to win. Unfortunately, he was pulled up after five fences, later diagnosed with a fibrillating heart.
For this Grade Two contest, Gidleigh Park entered the race as a 15-2 outsider, ridden by Bryan Carver. From the start, he showcased his enjoyment of the race, setting a strong pace that only the 4-6 favorite, Caldwell Potter, could keep up with.
Caldwell Potter, a notable Grade One-winning hurdler purchased for €740,000 (£625,000) by a group including Sir Alex Ferguson, posed a potential threat in the home straight. Despite this, Gidleigh Park maintained his lead and ultimately crossed the finish line four lengths ahead.
Personal Ambition finished in third, trailing by 19 lengths, while You Wear It Well brought up the rear of the four-horse field.
Reflecting on the race, Fry shared with Sky Sports Racing: “The overriding feeling is relief, especially since he was able to jump and gallop well, finishing strongly.” He added, “Winning today was the icing on the cake. We aimed to see him back in prime form, and I’m thrilled with his performance. We’re back on track and moving forward.”
Fry acknowledged the collaborative effort that went into Gidleigh Park’s recovery, stating, “Many have contributed to his return, and it’s gratifying to see that hard work materialize. The dream continues.” He further mentioned his surprise at racing Gidleigh Park in the Albert Bartlett, noting, “He’s not a slow horse, and he demonstrated that today.” Fry will now evaluate how Gidleigh Park recovers before mapping out future plans.
Nemean Lion Clinches Gutsy Win in Hurdle Event
Nemean Lion displayed remarkable determination to secure a victory in the Weatherbys Cheltenham Festival Betting Guide Hurdle at Windsor.
This eight-year-old gelding has been a valuable asset to trainer Kerry Lee, boasting five prior wins over obstacles, including notable Grade Two victories in the Premier Novices’ Hurdle at Kelso and the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton.
After a strong performance in a Hereford handicap, Nemean Lion was a slight favorite for this £100,000 event, priced at 85-40. He showcased his talent and tenacity under jockey Richard Patrick.
During the two-and-a-half-mile race, Salver and Blueking d’Oroux set a brisk pace early on, with Blueking d’Oroux temporarily breaking free before being reeled in again during the stretch.
As Blueking d’Oroux’s efforts waned, along with Iberico Lord and Langer Dan struggling to make an impact, Nemean Lion emerged as the primary challenger to Salver. In a thrilling finish, Nemean Lion triumphed by a half-length.
Reflecting on the ride, Patrick noted, “Riding a horse like Nemean Lion makes the job straightforward. We had a good gallop early on, and although the pace slowed, that suited us as it turned into a sprint.” He added, “He executed brilliantly today and managed to kick a hurdle out of the ground, as he often does. Currently, he’s at his peak.”
Lee expressed his enthusiasm, describing Nemean Lion as a “superstar” and highlighting his vibrant personality. “He enjoys being a racehorse and has thrived since joining us,” said Lee. “Now that he’s eight, he’s matured. Even though he’s been racing for a while, he truly loves life, and today’s performance was a testament to that.” Despite his background in Flat racing, which required constant effort, in hurdles, he approaches the challenge with more ease, though today’s race required a substantial effort to secure victory.
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