'He's obviously got a big engine' – Grade 2 bumper winner Horaces Pearl makes successful hurdles debut for Fergal O'Brien

Horaces Pearl took his unbeaten run to four when making a taking hurdles debut under Connor Brace for Fergal O'Brien. 

The six-year-old has not been straightforward to train but has a high level of ability having won three bumpers last season, including the Grade 2 at Aintree in April.

There was room for improvement in his jumping early on, but he warmed to the task and stretched six lengths clear of Jackstell after the last, with bookmakers leaving him a 33-1 chance for the Supreme Novices' Hurdle.

"I'm delighted with that and he did it very well," O'Brien said. "There's no plans going forward because he's four from four, but there's always a long time between drinks. Everyone at home does a good job with him and when he turns up he's obviously got a big engine.

"Connor gave him a lovely ride. He's done a lot of schooling at home, but he'd never run in a point-to-point and it was lovely to see him get better as the race went on."

While keen not to commit to any specific targets, O'Brien added: "I think he'll stay further in time and he should be better in a better race. His jumping should improve."

O'Brien completed a double when his only other runner, Lilting Verse, got the better of Moonlit Potter in the following 2m7½f mares' handicap chase.

In-form team

Greatwood-winning trainer James Owen struck with Grove Road in the 3m1f handicap hurdle. The evens favourite was partnered by Callum Pritchard, who himself took a big prize in the Badger Beer Chase a fortnight ago.

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