Freedom victory a step in the right direction

THAT was mission accomplished at Cheltenham yesterday for Steps To Freedom and I was delighted. He took the journey no problem, travelled well during the race, jumped super and did the job on his first experience of a unique track even though the ground was softer than you’d think.

I was absolutely thrilled with the way he battled like hell up the hill after the last. He had shown that he was still a bit green at Punchestown last month but Robert said that running against such experienced horses stood to him.

So there were a whole lot of positives. He would definitely have preferred a quicker gallop, but he’ll get it in the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle and that’s the target now. He’s going to take a break because I think he’s done enough. He’s been on the go all summer.