Apache takes his Gilt-edged opportunity

There was a dramatic conclusion to the Flower Hill Beginners Chase at Navan today, as clear leader Gilt Shadow had the race at his mercy only to crash out at the final fence, leaving the way for 10/11 favourite Apache Jack to win under Bryan Cooper.

Second favourite Gilt Shadow and Andrew Lynch went clear of their rivals from the third last fence and were in total control racing to the final fence. However the gelding failed to successfully clear that fence, falling heavily and leaving Apache Jack to pick up the pieces and record a four and a quarter lengths win over Smokey Joe Joe

Apache Jack's, third in last season's Albert Bartlett Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham, trainer Sandra Hughes later stated "he hated the ground but he's a winner now.

"He's a good ground horse and wants three miles and will be better on better ground. He'll get an entry for the RSA (Chase at Cheltenham) and we'll have a look. Soft ground is okay but he really wants good."

Both Gilt Shadow and Andrew Lynch were subsequently ok following the final fence fall.

By Tom Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson