Romeo Coolio leads home Elliott one-two at Leopardstown

Romeo Coolio bounced back to winning ways with an authoritative display in the Paddy Power Future Champions Novice Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Gordon Elliott has always thought the world of the five-year-old, but he was beaten in the Royal Bond at Fairyhouse last time out.

Nevertheless, he was sent off the 7-4 favourite to go one better in this Grade One and the result never looked in doubt.

An early mistake from Karniquet meant he was always on the back foot and he dropped away before the turn for home, which left Bleu De Vassy a stablemate of the winner, as the main danger.

Romeo Coolio quickened away on the run to the last and had the race in safe keeping, only to make a bit of a mess of it, but it was to his credit that Sam Ewing gathered his reins and he was soon back in top gear.

He went on to win by an impressive nine lengths and was halved in price from 20-1 to 10-1 for the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle by Betfair.

“Obviously it didn’t go to plan the last day and we all went home a bit disappointed,” said Elliott.

“I’m delighted for the boys, they are back over here today. I’m very proud of the horse, and the boys that own him, as they are big supporters of Cullentra.

“He had a little blip the last day and we’re very happy.

“Looking at that today, I’d say just a fast gallop is what he needs. He looked good there today.

“We said after the last day, we were going to go on and keep it simple.

“I’d imagine he’ll probably go for the Supreme Novices’.”

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Sea Of Sands (GER), trained by W.P. Mullins, at the request of the Raceday Stewards and reported the animal to be clinically abnormal post race.