Lastoftheleaders (centre) is marginally in front over the last, with Rocky Wednesday on his outside© Photo Healy Racing
Gordon Elliott recorded his fifth win in two days, as Rocky Wednesday completed a double for him at Leopardstown this afternoon, taking the valuable Paddy Power Handicap Hurdle.
Ridden by Robbie Colgan, the six-year-old son of Rock Of Gibraltar was sent off at 10/1. He won a hurdle at Ballinrobe in April, but since disappointed on the level at Navan, while also disappointing over hurdles at Galway in October.
He put in an improved performance at Fairyhouse last month finishing fifth to Smashing over two and a half miles, and he was dropped back to two miles this afternoon.
Settled towards the rear, the white-faced gelding looked beaten in last as they jumped two out, however he responded well for pressure in the straight.
He jumped the last in second, and quickly got to the front, going on to score by two and a quarter lengths at the line. Lastoftheleaders (6/1) put in a game front running display but he had to settle for second under Bryan Cooper for Tony Martin, while the well-backed favourite Never Enough Time (11/4 to 7/4 on-course) was four and a quarter lengths back in third under Mark Walsh for Tom Foley.
Gordon Elliott said afterwards: "Robbie gave him a great ride. He is a bit of a monkey but he has plenty of ability."
Arnaud, Blacklough and Tangled Web were all taken out of the contest due to being lame, which resulted in just seven horses taking part.
Additional reporting by Alan Magee
