Search
![icon](/images/logo.png)
Cheltenham 2024
Main Site
Cheltenham Home
Cheltenham Cards
Cheltenham Results
-
Cheltenham Offers
Cheltenham Odds
-
Cheltenham Tips
Cheltenham News
Prestbury Cup
Cheltenham Videos
-
Cheltenham Statistics
- Leading Trainer
- Leading Jockeys
- Leading Owners
- Previous Years
- Previous Appearances
- Breeding Profile of Winners
- Lady Jockeys at The Festival
- Leading Jockey Award Winners
- Most Successful Jockeys of All Time
- Current Jockeys Competing at Cheltenham
- Most Successful Jockey In..
- Leading Trainer Award Winners
- Most Successfull Trainer All Time
- Current Trainers Competing at Cheltenham
- Most Successful Trainer In..
-
Cheltenham Trainer/Runner Index
Desktop Site
Cheltenham 2024
- Home
- News
![Gary Carson](/photos/gary_pic2.jpg)
Gary Carson
George gets off the mark
George Vancouver takes opener in style
© Photo Healy Racing
Better ground looked the key as George Vancouver got off the mark at the third time of asking in the opener at Dundalk.
The Henrythenavigator colt had been turned over at short-prices on his first two starts, both in testing conditions.
But the support for him today proved justified (5/1 in morning into 11/8f) as he took the six furlong contest in style.
Joseph O'Brien had his mount prominent throughout and he kicked on at the furlong pole.
The Ballydoyle colt kept on strongly in the closing stages to post a cosy three-and-a-quarter length success over Lottie Dod
"The ground was shocking at the Curragh and he couldn't pick up in it," said Joseph O'Brien.
"He really quickened up today and sprinted all the way to the line. He wants good ground as Henrythenavigator wanted it quick. He's a stallion going places.
"He's always shown plenty of speed from day one. He's only won a maiden there but I'd imagine he'll step up to listed or group class now."
![](/photos/gary_pic2.jpg)