Drop in trip proves just the tonic for New Phase

AMATEUR Robbie McNamara took the riding honours at Cork yesterday, completing a fine double on New Phase and Mississippi River.

Returning to his optimum trip of two miles, the Dermot Weld trained New Phase ran out a facile four lengths winner of the Jason Fallon Live December 12th Hurdle, beating the highly-rated Jered.

New Phase is owned by Weld’s son Kris, who commented: “He didn’t really get home over the longer trip at Naas the last day. But two miles around here in soft ground was ideal. I’ll have to discuss plans with dad, but he might have a break with a view to going chasing in the New Year.”