Dr Val and Ben Harvey (right)© Photo Healy Racing
Jockey Ben Harvey continued his good run since turning professional two months ago when bagging another long-distance Punchestown prize today, with Dr Val (20/1) in the Last Chance 10% Off Festival Handicap Hurdle.
The 5lb claimer had a breakthrough first win for Gigginstown House Stud and trainer Gordon Elliott on Coko Beach in Sunday's 3m4f, €90,000 Grand National Trial at the same venue, and today steered the Eamonn 'Dusty' Sheehy-trained Dr Val to win over three miles, 100 yards.
Sheehy said “I was very disappointed the last day here when he cut out but we scoped him and he was full of muck. It was clay and went down his throat and that's why we put a cross noseband on today to give him a bit of a chance.
“I felt if he produced his Fairyhouse run he'd win but he had to produce that.”
He added “Ben rode him last time and said the ground wasn't the problem, he's versatile enough and will go on nicer ground as well. I'd say the key to him is the (three-miles) trip.
“He'll be a nice horse jumping a fence for three-mile handicaps.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
