Anyone impressed by Pandorama over the course and distance a fortnight ago, could hardly have imagined that their view of him would be enhanced, but the Flemensfirth gelding had even the most hard-nosed of racegoers talking in excited terms after destroying Alpha Ridge by twenty six lengths in the 'Monksfield' Novice Hurdle.
Alpha Ridge himself looked a top-prospect when scoring at Cork three weeks ago, and many expected Paul Nolan's charge to give Pandorama plenty to think about. However he couldn't get Paul Carberry's mount off the bridle. The 8/13 chance took over in the straight and despite getting the third last wrong, he came clear in the style of an exceptional horse. There was a further distance back to No Full in third.
Successful trainer, Noel Meade said: "Wow, that would keep you dreaming. He was awesome. He handles soft ground really well, he has a huge engine and is very clear winded. He probably is best on soft ground and I wouldn't like to see him running on fast ground. He only has a very light pedigree but he is really laid back and his next start will be in the Barry & Sandra Kelly Memorial Novice Hurdle here (December 14th) and then he'll have a break before coming back in the spring."
A point-to-point winner for John Halley last January in Dungarvan, Pandorama is now four from four under Rules. He was recommended to his owner, Robert Bagnall, by Peter Kavanagh's wife, Mary, after his win 'between the flags.'
Pandorama is now a general 6/1 chance for the Ballymore Properties Novice Hurdle at Cheltenham. (EM)
