'He’s a freak': Brilliant Bob Olinger storms to Ballymore Novices' Hurdle glory

Rachael Blackmore on Bob Olinger celebrates winning the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle. Picture: INPHO/Mark Cranham

Billed as a battle, the Ballymore Novices' Hurdle instead turned into a procession as the brilliant Bob Olinger powered up the hill to beat Gaillard du Mesnil by seven and a half lengths for the Champion Hurdle winning combination of Henry de Bromhead and Rachael Blackmore.

While the winning trainer and jockey were quick to pay tribute to the winner, returned the 6-4 favourite, perhaps the most telling tribute came from Harry Cobden, the man on board the third horse home, long-time leader Bravemansgame.