CLASSY FRY’S LOOKING FOR EVEN MORE!
HARRY FRY is rapidly establishing himself as a trainer of significant standing and KYLEMORE LOUGH (Cheltenham, nb, 2.25) can confirm his graduation to the top table of the country’s pre- eminent National Hunt handlers this afternoon.
The decision to switch Kylemore Lough to Fry from Kerry Lee this summer looks a shade harsh given the gelding won five races on the bounce two seasons ago.
Admittedly, the eight-year- old’s last campaign was less straightforward, but he was touched off by Ascot specialist Royal Regatta on his reappearance before running a blinder in the Caspian Caviar Gold Cup on the New Course at today’s venue. But for pitching on landing after jumping the third-last fence, Kylemore Lough could well have finished closer to Frodon than he managed, but a two-length defeat was still a creditable performance given he helped to set a strong gallop alongside trail-blazer Village Vic.
Fry has identified his recruit goes pretty well fresh, preferring to arrive at Cheltenham without the benefit of a recent run and instead preparing him at home and adding a tongue tie to assist his breathing.
Kylemore Lough won an Irish Grade One 18 months ago, beating the talented Outlander, and he has since done little to disprove the theory Fry’s charge is fairly handicapped by winning a Lexus Chase and a JN Wine Champion Chase.
There is the prospect of a strong gallop with the likes of Double Treasure, Days Of Heaven and Foxtail Hill, so Noel Fehily should gain a nice tow into the race before delivering his challenge.
KK LEXION (Cheltenham, nap, 3.00) didn’t receive the most energyefficient ride last time and could be worth siding with now that Adrian Heskin replaces Tom George’s son Noel as jockey. Noel was embroiled in a barging match with Daryl Jacob and his mount Creep Dubois two out and then was fully committed for home by his young rider.
Kk Lexion then took lengths out of the field rounding the turn, but paid for those premature exertions and was overhauled. If he is ridden with more patience this afternoon, then he can trouble likely favourite Thomas Campbell.