Joy for Macs as he takes his revenge
Brave Inca had mastered his rival both at Prestbury Park and in the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown, but Tony McCoy was never happy aboard the hot-pot on this occasion.
A masterstroke by Barry Geraghty, allied to the much easier track, saw Macs Joy canter to a four lengths success.
Macs Joy, at least in the recent past, has always tried to cut down his tough opponent in the closing stages.
But Geraghty has clearly had enough of that and this time made his move in the vicinity of the third last.
Reported Geraghty: “I was there (near the front) much earlier than anyone could have anticipated.
“But I saw that the lads were struggling and their didn't seem much point in holding on. The horse deserved this, he ran a great race at Cheltenham.”
Hardy Eustace tried to make all and it was soon clear that this was not a going day for Brave Inca.
McCoy was soon niggling him along and, by this fellow's standards, only getting a moderate response.
At the third last neither Conor O'Dwyer, on Hardy Eustace, or McCoy appeared to be holding on to anything.
Coming away from the flight Macs Joy, galloping all over his rivals, was allowed stride on.
To Brave Inca's credit he tried to rally, but his was a lost cause and he could never, ever get back at the winner.
Hardy Eustace, beginning to look a light of other days, just held no-hoper Essex for third.
Commented winning trainer, Jessica Harrington: “Maybe we should take them on a bit earlier in future.
“Barry told me he was going to do what he did, it was fantastic. Macs Joy goes on the ground and loves the sun on his back.
“It is great to win here and now we will have to go back to Cheltenham and try to win over there.
“Perhaps, he's not a Cheltenham horse, but is entitled to another shot. Chasing is not an option at the moment, he's not over-big.”
Colm Murphy was making no excuses for Brave Inca. “Tony (McCoy) said he was never really travelling”, said Murphy.
“It was lovely jumping ground and the horse seems fine. All credit to Macs Joy.”
Cashmans eased Brave Inca out a point to 6-1 favourite for the Champion Hurdle. Macs Joy is their second favourite, 8-1 from 10's
Boylesports kept Brave Inca at 4-1 and tightened Macs Joy to 8's from 12-1. William Hill make Brave Inca 4-1 and Macs Joy 8-1 from 10-1.
