Gary Carson
Sutton Manor off the mark for Elliott
Sutton Manor
© Photo Healy Racing
Sutton Manor made the breakthrough on his second start over hurdles when running out a convincing winner of the 2m2f maiden hurdle at Wexford.
Gordon Elliott ’s charge, who was runner-up on his hurdling debut at Fairyhouse earlier in the month, had also been second in a point-to-point and a bumper last season.
The Gigginstown gelding was sent off a 4/5 shot to open his account today and got the job done without much fuss.
Bryan Cooper ’s mount disputed early on before settling in behind front-runner Hughies Bay before the second flight.
He hit the front turning for him and stayed on stoutly in the closing stages to record a five-and-a-half length success over 20/1 shot Nanny Stone
"He won it grand but it probably wasn't the strongest race in the world. I'd say we will step him up in trip now, and he'll go to three mile,” said Elliott.
“He'll jump a fence in time too. He was bit sloppy over the last couple, Bryan said he might be better with a bit of company.
“It was only his second run for me so I don't know a whole lot about him. He was a big weak horse and he just needed time. He'll be a grand horse to jump a fence in time."
(Quotes by Donal Murphy)