Jockey Jack Kennedy and trainer Gordon Elliott combined for Downpatrick doubles today, as Jenny Flex (9/2) landed the C Russell Auto Sales Beginners Chase for owners Robcour.

The point-to-point winning mare had failed to win in ten previosu racecourse runs and while she possessed a hurdles rating of just 91, today scored readily in a race confined to horses rated 109 or less over hurdles.

It was a landmark day for Kennedy, who earlier registered a 500th career success, and regarding Jenny Flex said "she did it well and the switch to fences has really brought out improvement in her.

“She has lost nothing in defeat the last twice and it was nice for her to get her head in front today. She enjoyed striding along there in front and jumped great.

“I let her pop the last and she came up out of my hands, so she was plenty fresh anyway at that point of the race. I knew I was clear so didn't want to do anything stupid. We had a difference of opinon, but she is brilliant to jump.

He added "she is a big, good-looking mare and I'm sure she will throw a few nice foals down the line whenever that might be."

Quotes from Michael Graham