Amlad and Bryan Cooper (near side) jump the last upsides Pretty Little Liar © Photo Healy Racing
There was drama in the Support Local Stay Local Handicap Hurdle as the 11/10 favourite Downthecellar ran out when in front at the second last.
Paul Townend’s mount didn’t seem to enjoy racing this way around after completing a four-timer over fences at right-handed tracks and was hanging right from some way out.
His departure left plenty in with a chance, and it was the Andy McNamara-trained Amlad (13/2) who seized the initiative at the last. He ran on well to score by a length and three quarters from Pretty Little Liar with Heliers Bay back in third.
A three-time winner on the Flat, the Lope De Vega gelding had been placed a couple of times in similar events earlier in the year and this was a first victory for him over hurdles.
Winning rider Bryan Cooper remarked: “I felt I always had them covered to be honest. I was keen not to get there until the last as he only does enough.
“I fancied him coming here and I thought a strong run two miles would suit him. It’s nice to get a winner for Andy.”
Quotes from Alan Magee
