Aitmatov sneaks Hatton's Grace glory
Sunday, 2 December 2007 14:51Sweet Kiln suffered a heart-breaking defeat as Aitmatov just got up in the shadow of the post to take the Ballymore Properties Hatton's Grace Hurdle.
The Michael Bowe-trained mare took up her customary position at the head of affairs, quickly building up a huge advantage over Rosaker with the eventual winner settled in the chasing pack.
Although the field started to reel in Sweet Kiln turning for home, Tom Doyle's mount was still travelling well as Aitmatov powered through and tried to close.
The mare, sent off the 2-1 joint-favourite with Aitmatov, took the last in front but she began to tire in the final few yards.
Doyle tried his best to hold Sweet Kiln together but despite battling bravely, Carberry got a telling thrust out of the Meade-trained Aitmatov to secure a Grade One double for the trainer and jockey team.
Meade said: 'I was a bit surprised he was able to do it in that ground - he's better on better ground.
'I have a secret weapon though - P Carberry! He's just fantastic and can read a race like nobody else. I'm so lucky to have him.'
Meade has real strength in depth in the two-mile hurdle division with Jazz Messenger, yesterday's winner Harchibald and now Aitmatov.
'Jazz Messenger and Harchibald will probably go to Kempton for the Christmas Hurdle now, although Harchibald will only go if the ground is right,' added Meade.
'This horse will probably head to Leopardstown at Christmas.'
