Elliott self isolating with Coronavirus but no problems for Zanahiyr

Gordon Elliott wasn’t present at Leopardstown to see his Zanahiyr (1/2 favourite) strengthen his position at the head of the Triumph Hurdle market as he is self-isolating after testing positive for Coronavirus.

Zanahiyr is 3/1 with Paddy Power for the Triumph after landing the Grade Two Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle under Jack Kennedy, winning by three and three parts of a length from Busselton

Now three from three over hurdles, Noel and Valerie Moran’s hugely exciting youngster overcame the lack of pace through this two miler, asserting away on the run-in for another impressive win.

Elliott and Kennedy were doubling up after Wide Receiver s win in the previous race.

A statement from the absent Elliott read — “As part of the recommended return from travel Day 5 test, I have tested positive for the Coronavirus. It’s come as a big surprise as I’ve been asymptomatic, and I will now continue to self-isolate for a further ten days.

“Since the test result has come back, we have had all the staff here at Cullentra tested, and thankfully all tests have come back negative.”

For his part Kennedy said: “That was a great performance.

“It was a complete opposite sort of race than the last day. We went very steady and he still won, so it just shows that he can do it any way.

“He only did what he had to. Quilixios is very good as well but I think he might edge him.”

(GC & EM)