Well-related three-year-old off the mark over hurdles at the first attempt.
The highly anticipated Harvest Festival at Listowel kicked off in spectacular fashion, with Gordon Elliott's Zaynab delivering a breathtaking performance in her hurdles debut. The three-year-old filly, a half-sister to the renowned Zanahiyr, showcased her natural ability and a seamless transition from the flat to the jumps as she stormed to victory in the Charleville Cheese 3-Y-O Hurdle, firmly establishing herself as one to watch.
Zaynab, who had already proven her prowess on the flat by winning two of her four starts this season, was last seen at Royal Ascot in the Sandringham Stakes. However, it was over hurdles where she truly came into her own. Sent off as the 2-1 joint-favourite under jockey Sam Ewing, Zaynab unleashed a powerful finish, pulling clear of the previously unbeaten Teriferma to win by an impressive four lengths.
A Perfectly Executed Strategy
Elliott’s assistant, Lisa O'Neill, could not contain her delight, praising the filly's ability to settle early and execute a flawless race. “She was very good and settled well. She had been keen previously, so that’s why she wore the hood, and she seemed pretty natural at jumping,” O'Neill remarked. The team knew that Zaynab's temperament would be crucial, and the decision to use the hood paid off as she saved all her energy for when it mattered most.
O'Neill added, “The key was that she had to settle, which she did, and the hood obviously worked. She preserved all the energy she needed and it was a great ride by Sam. He felt like he had loads left from the back of the last, and I imagine the aim now is to go on to Down Royal in early November. It was a nice start for her.”
World Of Fortunes Impresses in Irish EBF Mares Hurdle
Liam Kenny’s World Of Fortunes continued her winning ways with a dominant victory in the Cheesestrings Irish EBF Mares Hurdle, with Jordan Gainford in the saddle. The six-year-old mare, fresh off her hurdling debut win at Wexford, showed her class once again, leaving no doubt about her abilities as she cruised past the Willie Mullins-trained favourite Paggane, winning by four lengths.
Part-owner Michael Broderick was thrilled with the performance, especially considering World Of Fortunes' previous hurdles success over a longer distance. “She has come on a lot from her win in Wexford, and obviously that was over three miles. She jumped slowly at the start of that race, and we felt a faster pace over a shorter distance would suit her,” Broderick said.
“She is good, we like her, and while she had a blip, she is back on track now,” he added, reflecting on her recent form. For Broderick, Listowel was more than just another victory—“I’m living in Ballymore Eustace, but Listowel is originally home for me, so this is super.”
Gavin Cromwell's One Night Standard Edges Close Finish
In a thrilling race that kept the crowd on the edge of their seats, One Night Standard, trained by Gavin Cromwell, secured a narrow victory in the Kerry Group Irish EBF Mares Handicap Hurdle. Keith Donoghue expertly guided the 12-1 shot to a short-head win, edging out 6-4 favourite Straight Home. The tight finish demonstrated One Night Standard's determination and fighting spirit, with Cromwell beaming after the race.
Uncle Pat Delivers for Mullins in Dairygold Maiden Hurdle
Willie Mullins and Paul Townend combined for a successful outing as Uncle Pat claimed the Dairygold Maiden Hurdle as the 7-4 joint-favourite. Townend praised the gelding’s stamina and maturity, highlighting his impressive jumping. “We went a good gallop, he is progressing away, and we are learning about him. He stays well, jumps brilliantly, and will jump a fence,” said Townend, clearly pleased with Uncle Pat’s potential for future races.
O'Brien’s Double Delight: San Salvador and Solness Shine
Joseph O'Brien had reason to celebrate as he landed a quick-fire double with San Salvador and Solness. First, San Salvador produced a determined display in the Strings & Things Rated Novice Chase, seeing off stablemate Jordans by a length and three-quarters. Richie Deegan, who piloted San Salvador, noted that the gelding’s jumping had improved significantly, stating, “His jumping came together, and he’s always had plenty of ability. He got it all together today.”
O'Brien’s representative, Sean Corby, also shed light on Jordans, who was making his debut for the stable after showing promise in training. “Jordans is a French horse who was having his first run for Joseph, and he had been showing plenty at home. They both ran well, and hopefully, there’s more improvement to come,” Corby said.
O'Brien completed the double with Solness in the Kerry Group Handicap Chase. The 13-2 shot held off The Banger Doyle by half a length, with jockey Oakley Brown’s 5lb claim proving pivotal. Corby commented, “He is a classy horse on his day, and Oakley’s 5lb off was a big help. Oakley is on the Hill (at Owning) five days a week, so it is nice to get him a winner as he deserves it.”
Liz Doyle's Cappucino Closes Festival Opener
The closing race of the day, the Farm & Home Store (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race, saw Cappucino, trained by Liz Doyle, deliver a commanding front-running performance to take the spoils. John Gleeson expertly guided the 7-2 shot to victory, leading from start to finish and ending the day on a high note.
