Nell wins well for Fannin

Jumps racing took centre stage at Te Aroha yesterday where several promising hurdlers were unveiled.

But the day’s feature was the restricted open steeplechase won by Nells Belle for Mystery Creek owner and trainer Neil O’Dowd.

With regular rider Emma Goodison injured, top jockey Shaun Fannin took the reins and rode his usual accomplished race to lead from start to finish.

‘‘When Shaun rang for the ride I nearly fell off my chair,’’ O’Dowd said.

But Fannin was spot on the money making the journey from Wanganui for the one ride on a great day for his mount’s sire Istidaad, who produced winners of three jumps races.

It was something of a homecoming for the winner of the open hurdle The Shackler.

The Shackler was successful eight times on the flat for Te Aroha trainer Michael Dromgool before his transfer to Paul Nelson’s Hastings stable.

The free-goer never caused his followers any concerns as cruised to victory under Aaron Kuru by a massive 26 lengths from Ngatira Gold.

A 10-year-old by Istidaad, The Shackler has won 10 races and around $100,000.

Who Can Tell looks another promising hurdler for veteran owner and trainer Ann Browne after his impressive maiden win ridden by Shaun Phelan.

‘‘I spent half the race trying to find the ‘go’ button, when I pushed ot he just went whoosh,’’ Fannin said.

‘‘I think he could be quite a talent, like Raisafuasho [last season’s Great Northern Hurdles runnerup for Browne].’’

Another son of Istidaad won his hurdle debut for owner-trainer Graham Falconer.

El Corby outstayed his maiden rivals in the third of the day’s jumps races ridden by Emily Farr.

‘‘I was really hoping he would get around safely,’’ Falconer said of El Corby.

‘‘But he did the job really good.’’