Improved jumping does it for Leap in Thyestes
“I’m delighted, this is one of the greatest races in Ireland”, said O’Leary, as he showered praise on Niamh Smith, who has worked closely on the horse’s jumping of late. “Niamh works in O’Briens’ saddlery in Bandon and has been using eventing techniques”, reported O’Leary.
“Because of Niamh his jumping has come right in the last ten days. I don’t know if he would have won without her, but it would have been hit-and-miss.”
Priests Leap was superbly handled by 20-year-old Philip Enright, who was having his first ride back following suspension.
He was suspended for 21 racing-days after partnering I Will Ya to finish 12th of 24 in a maiden hurdle at Navan on November 25.
“I asked Conor O’Dwyer to ride the horse, but he couldn’t do the weight”, said O’Leary. “But Conor had a word with Philip and told him to be patient. Philip gave him a copybook ride.”
A creditable runner-up behind Gaspar in a conditions race at Thurles previously, Preists Leap arrived here at the peak of his powers. Hunted around in mid-division for a lot of the trip, Preists Leap began to work into the race in the final mile.
Black Apalachi, always near the front, went for glory over the third last. But the winner was soon out after him and, brought through with impeccable timing by Enright, swept past at the last to power clear for a four and a half lengths success.
Quizzed as to future plans, O’Leary quickly responded: “Back to Ballinascarthy to have a session.
“He’s a young horse and there’s no rush, he can go anywhere now after that. I’d say he’s capable of winning more of these big handicaps.
“He could run in an English National some day, but not this year. It’s all about him having confidence in his jumping.”
Enright, who won the Pierse Hurdle at Leopardstown last year aboard Spring The Que, commented: “I missed all of Christmas, it is terrific to win this on my first day back.
“He gave me a great ride and everything went to plan. Often in the past when a good jump was needed, he made a mistake, but jumped super today.”
Tony Martin’s Newbay Prop went off 5-1 favourite to add to his Paddy Power victory at Leopardstown.
He ranged up with every chance approaching the straight, but could not raise his tempo sufficiently to take a hand in the closing stages.
