IT’S NO PAIN & ALL GAIN
back, and novice Ash Tree Meadow a creditable fourth.
Winner of the bet365 Gold Cup at Sandown in April and in the colours of Naas owner T J Mcdonald, Hewick had no problem racing close to the pace and, left disputing the lead when Fire Attack crashed five from home, asserted early on the run in before staying on – hindered by a loose horse – to land the winner’s prize of €159,300.
“It’s an emotional day,” said jubilant trainer Hanlon. “I’ve been coming here all my life and always dreamed about winning the Plate. My mother and father are here with me – they haven’t been racing for three years – and that makes it extra special.
“It’s great for everyone at home – our game has gone very tough and getting harder. So it’s unreal for a small yard like ours to win these big races.
“He had no luck in his two point-to-points – if he had he would have been sold. We hoped he couldn’t stay unlucky and look at him now.
“Hewick is a real star. He’s very easy to train and doesn’t take much galloping, so we can keep him sound. Jordan (Gainford, 21) knows the horse and gave him a great ride. And fair play to Gordon (Elliott) for giving him to me.
“The two races I’ve always wanted to win were the Plate and the Kerry National, which I won with Alfa Beat 11 years ago. And that’s where this fellow will head now – Listowel.”
Denied a third Plate success, Willie Mullins registered a Wednesday treble, with championjockey Paul Townend partnering Champ Kiely and Rock Road scoring in the early hurdle action before Ruth Dudfield rode 28/1 shot
Dads Lad to victory in the amateur riders’ maiden.
Off the track for over a year, Champ Kiely was very impressive when recording a facile 21 length win in the opener, prompting Mullins to state: “I’m really looking forward to him when he goes chasing.”
Rock Road took the SP or Better Guaranteed With Tote Handicap Hurdle in convincing style, beating the gambled-on Shoot First.
“That was a nice surprise in the manner he did it,” said Mullins. “He’s in the (Grade B) Boylesports Handicap Hurdle here on Saturday. He has a nice mark, so, maybe, we’ll let him take his chance.”