Ned Kelly took his first step on the Champion Hurdle trail with an easy victory in the Anglo Irish Bank Hurdle at Down Royal today. Edward O'Grady's charge won by 20 lengths from Joe Cullen and the trainer expressed his relief afterwards. "The horse is still gross and, to be honest, I was a bit wary of a three horse race because anything can happen in this sort of contest," said O'Grady.
Jockey Norman Williamson was also delighted with his win. "I was very pleased. He jumped well and I gave him a squeeze over the third last and again over the second last where he responded well. He is improving all the time," he said.
Ned Kelly is expected to run again in the Morgina Hurdle at Punchestown next Saturday and after that he may go for the Hattons Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse in December. Bookmakers Sean Graham are now quoting Ned Kelly at 10-1 for the Champion Hurdle at Cheltenham while Cashmans came in with a 9-1 quote. Cashmans make Istabraq 5-4 favourite for the big race.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
