Champagne Classic and Robbie Power jump the last to win the MW Hickey Memorial Chase © Photo Healy Racing
Robbie Power had no luck at Wincanton yesterday but this afternoon at Wexford he doubled up aboard Champagne Classic in the featured M.W. Hickey Memorial Chase.
Power won the previous maiden hurdle on Silver Sheen for Jessica Harrington. He teamed up with Gigginstown House Stud and Gordon Elliott for the spin on Champagne Classic.
He may have been edged out for favouritism by Discorama but he comfortably had that rival’s measure out on the track, eventually taking the spoils by three and three parts of a length.
The four runner contest didn’t really unfold until just before the straight and former Cheltenham and Punchestown festival winner Champagne Classic always seemed to be at his ease.
“He won well and 'Puppy' said he loves that ground,” said Elliott representative Ian 'Busty' Amond.
“They went a good gallop and that suited him. I think he's going to go for the Drinmore now after that.
“He jumped well and did everything well. He had a fitness advantage there on a few of them. Puppy was happy and said he travelled well.”
For his part Power reflected: "It was a very good performance. He was entitled to do that, having had the run under his belt.
"That run was the main factor because I could test the others' fitness.
"It was great for the horse's confidence to get another win as he's had his ups and downs. It's onwards and upwards for him hopefully."
(GC & EM)
