World wins for canny Kennedy

Small World was the third horse of the evening at Ballinrobe to make all the running and win as the Peter Fahey trained gelding landed the McGrath Limestone Works Ltd. Handicap Hurdle under an enterprising ride from jockey Jack Kennedy.

The seven year old gelding's previous two wins, last year, were gained under waiting rides from Ruby Walsh but today Kennedy elected to make the running and the pair maintained a clear lead throughout to eventually beat Fearachain by six and a half lengths.

Trainer Fahey later said “that's a lovely pot to get and I'm delighted for the owners.

"After his first two runs this year we were left scratching our heads as we thought he was coming back a nicer horse this season but he just didn't perform great at all.

"In fairness Jack gave him a brilliant ride there and to be honest I think he stole the race.

"It was completely his decision to go on and make it and it worked out great.

"We're lucky the horses are running well again and we're looking forward to Galway now with a few nice ones next week.

"If we could get a winner down there we'd be thrilled."

Quotes from Eamonn Murphy