Elliott Optimistic as McNamara doubles up

Robbie McNamara, successful in yesterday’s Paddy Power Chase, completed a double at Leopardstown today, in the concluding Irish Foal Levy Bumper on Gordon Elliott’s well touted newcomer Bold Optimist (11/8f).

In a slowly run race, Bold Optimist quickened well inside the final furlong for a two and a half lengths win over Felix Yonger

Afterwards Elliott, himself recording an across-the-card treble having had two winners at Down Royal, stated “Bold Optimist is still a big baby and hadn’t worked beyond 12 furlongs yet although he never came off the bridle! He looks a proper horse.”

Most bookmakers reacted to the win by installed Bold Optimist 10/1 favourite for Cheltenham’s Champion Bumper.

Thomas Weekes