Cougar leads New Year Honours over the last© Photo Healy Racing
Cougar made it two from two over flights, as he ran out a comfortable winner of the opener at Down Royal this afternoon, the Value Cabs 3YO Hurdle.
A smart performer on the level when trained by Aidan O'Brien, he was second in the Ulster Derby here in June, before easily winning his maiden at the Curragh.
He made the perfect start on his hurdles debut at Gowran and was expected to follow-up this afternoon, going off the 5/6 favourite (6/5 in early shows) under Mark Walsh for his boss JP McManus.
Settled behind the leaders, the Padraig Roche-trained Deep Impact colt improved into a share of the lead from four out and led before the next.
Pressed by New Year Honours from the second last, he readily went clear of that rival on the run-in after a slick jump at the final flight, with three-lengths between them at the line.
The runner-up was returned at 5/1 under Sam Ewing for Gordon Elliott, while Elliott's other runner, Our Victoria, faded tamely as the pace increased and finished a well-beaten fifth.
"He was plenty keen which wouldn't be like him. He jumped great and it's great to have a horse like him in the yard," Roche said.
"He doesn't mind the (testing) conditions and it is great that he won, I'm delighted to have him.
"Mark said he jumped well and he is improving all the time. He is a horse to look forward to."
Frank Berry, McManus' racing manager, added: "Yes, I think the Grade 3 in Fairyhouse could be next for him."
STEWARDS REPORTS
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Old Victoria (FR), trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be distressed post race. Samples were taken for analysis.
The Stewards enquired into an incident about two and a half furlongs from the finish involving Snapius ridden by G. Brouder, and New Year Honours (GB), ridden by Sam Ewing where it appeared that New Year Honours (GB) made contact with Snapius when manoeuvering out to make her challenge. Evidence was heard from the riders concerned. In his evidence, G. Brouder stated that he was on a straight racing line when New Year Honours (GB) came up his inner and then manoeuvered out and made contact with his own mount. Sam Ewing stated that Snapius came back in towards the rail after the third last hurdle and he angled his own mount to make a challenge. Having viewed the recording of the race and considered the evidence, the Stewards found Sam Ewing was in breach of Rule 214 in that he had ridden carelessly. Having considered his record in this regard, the Stewards cautioned Sam Ewing on this occasion.
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
