Autocrat and Joey Sheridan (left)© Photo Healy Racing
Ex-Ballydoyle trained Autocrat (5/2f) justified strong support to record a second success at Dundalk today, landing the Grand National BetVictor Handicap for trainer Denis Hogan and jockey Joey Sheridan.
Unplaced twice for Aidan O'Brien before selling to current connections for £42,000 last October, the No Nay Never colt today followed up a February success when beating Cherokee Run by two lengths.
Speaking at Ballinrobe, trainer Hogan reported "the horses are running well and Autocrat is a very nice horse and is capable of winning a good handicap somewhere. He has already schooled over hurdles but is still a colt and there's been a bit of interest in him, so he could be sold.”
Jockey Sheridan had earlier said "I said to Denis (Hogan) after his first run for us over a mile that the further you step this lad up in trip, the better you'll see of him.
"I think you'll see more of an improvement over 1m4f because he jumped and travelled whereas over 1m2f I had to force him to do everything. Today, he did everything for me.
"The lads gave me something to aim at and hopefully he will keep improving away.”
He added “we ran him on soft ground in Leopardstown the last day and he didn't like it. Back to all-weather, I was giving him a big chance and I think he will be a nice horse on good to firm ground.
"It is nice to ride another winner for Justin (Carthy, owner) because he is a good support of Denis and I."
Quotes from Michael Graham
