Paddocks beckon for Jennies Jewel

Jennies Jewel has been a model of consistency over many seasons, and gained a deserved win when taking the three-mile Thurles Racecourse Hurdle.

The Jarlath Fahey-trained mare won on the flat at Galway last autumn, and has run well in defeat on a number of occasions since including when runner-up to Vroum Vroum Mag at Ascot in January.

Ian McCarthy ’s mount threw down a challenge to the front-running Val de Ferbet as the pair took control of this four-runner affair at the third last.

Val de Ferbet appeared to be getting on top as the evens favourite briefly asserted after the penultimate flight but Jennies Jewel rallied strongly to lead before the last.

The 2/1 second favourite stayed on well on the run-in to score by four and a half lengths, with Colbert Station all of 36 lengths adrift in third.

Fahey said, "Her form had been seriously franked at Cheltenham with Vroum Vroum Mag and Diamond King and we thought this was another good opportunity to get another win on the board.

"She has been beaten by so many good horses I'm just delighted to get another with with her and, before she runs next at Punchestown, she'll be covered by Presenting.

"She's all heart and gets on with the job and it'll be a sad day when she retires. It's been a great four seasons with her."

(TW & AM)