Gordon Elliott’s string in fine form as Cheltenham looms on horizon

Virtually on the eve of the Cheltenham festival, where he hopes to have about fifteen runners, trainer Gordon Elliott doubled-up with favourites Akorakor and Alberta in Downpatrick yesterday.

Alberta, which Elliott bought from Turlough O’Connor since his debut second in Cork, stretched clear up the hill to beat market rival Hot On Her Heels, a debutante representing Willie Mullins, by eight and a half lengths, producing the most impressive performance of the day.

The Elliott double had been initiated when 4/9 favourite Akorakor, Bryan Cooper’s only ride of the day, belatedly opened his account over hurdles with a smooth, six lengths win over Mystic Princess in the Easy Does It Maiden Hurdle.