JP McManus received an early Christmas present when Bukhari landed today's featured handicap chase at Navan in fortunate circumstances. It's Time For A Win held a slight advantage when falling at the last, leaving Paul Moloney's mount to beat Some Bright Spark by 2 1/2L.
James Lambe saddled his second winner since taking out a full licence just over a year ago when Tuska Ridge caused a shock in the 2m6f handicap hurdle. The 8yo gelding was always prominent and, after stretching clear in the straight, held on by 1 1/2L from Graffiti Tongue.
The 20/1 chance, who paid £57.30 on the Tote, greatly contributed to the jackpot pool of 5,369 not being won. It will now be carried forward to the next meeting on 12 January.
Lambe, who broke his neck in a fall at the Tyrella point-to-point six years ago, said, "I have 20 horses in training, although most of them are for point-to-points." He said that Tuska Ridge will probably run again at Down Royal on Wednesday.'
Simon Macken was knocked unconscious after his mount Kilmourne was brought down at the second last hurdle in this race. He regained consciousness on the way to hospital, but Turf Club doctor Walter Halley immediately stood him down for a minimum of 21 days.
Joe Casey made a successful return following an eight week layoff with a broken wrist when Jacksons Gold landed a gamble in the 2m handicap hurdle.
Philip Rothwell's charge, well backed from 9/2 to 3/1, stayed on well under pressure from the last to beat Reminiscer by 5 1/2L.
Michael Halford is enjoying his best ever year, and the Curragh trainer brought his tally under both codes to 48 when In The Forge justified good support in the 4yo maiden hurdle. Barry Geraghty, who was unlucky later aboard Its Time For A Win, sent the gelding to the front two out to beat Canford by a comfortable 6L. "I will give him a break now, and he should be a better horse on good ground in the spring. The main aim will be a novice at the Fairyhouse or Punchestown Festival," said Halford.
Charlie Swan elected to force the pace on Perky's Pride in the 2m2f maiden hurdle, and the tactics proved successful as Michael Cunningham's charge made all to beat Spirit Leader by 6L.
Pat Sinnott has a novice event at Naas next month in mind for Badger's Wood, who jumped well under John Cullen to take the beginners chase in fine style.
