Having been hitting the crossbar with our first few winter runners, I was delighted to see Idy Wood and Regarde both winning at Kempton on Sunday.
Idy Wood was making his chasing debut having won a bumper and two novice hurdles previously. He jumped really well out in front under Gavin Sheehan and came home an easy winner. He should be able to progress and improve and is another exciting young horse in our team this winter.
Idy Wood wins on chasing debut at Kempton.
Having won from the front on Idy Wood, Gavin showed his patient approach to win on Regarde. Regarde had won two novice chases last season, but he stepped into open company here for the first time, and Gavin produced him up the home straight where three brilliant jumps sealed victory.
Regarde wins well on his seasonal return at Kempton.
Another chasing debutant was Torneo who was 3rd at Uttoxeter last week. He again jumped brilliantly, and this 4-year-old looks to be on an upward trajectory with that experience under his belt. The same could be said of Jack Sprat who was only beaten 4 lengths on his chasing debut at Wetherby last week too. He was progressive over hurdles and will keep improving over fences too.