THIS IS ONE COOL D’OUD
Fakir shows that he’s the real deal once again with decisive victory in Betfair test at Ascot.
Fakir D’oudairies was ut terly spellbinding in the Betfair Ascot Chase.
Joseph O’Brien’s gelding was a warm 9-4 favourite for the Grade 1 after a string of fine efforts in defeat against the brilliant Allaho.
The seven-year-old travelled fairly well and all looked to be well as he made rapid headway to challenge the trail-blazing Two For Gold (25/1) at the second last.
However, he made a bad error at that obstacle allowing his opponent to bui ld up another healthy advantage in the closing stages.
However, Fakir’s class told in the end and he came with a powerful late run to collar his rival and win going away by two lengths under Mark Walsh.
The rider said: “They went a proper gallop on the ground and he didn’t travel early. He made a mess of the second last but he’s very tough, there’s a strong headwind up there and he stuck his head down and battled up the hill.”
Fakir D’Oudairoes is now a general 7/1 chance for more Grade 1 glory in the Ryanair Chase at Cheltenham.
Goshen (4/7 Fav) continued his remarkable revival in the Kingwell Hurdle at Wincanton.
Gary Moore’s quirky star was well-backed to land the Grade 2 for the second year running after absolutely bolting up at Sandown two weeks ago.
The gelding had to work a lot harder this time but he showed class and grit to down Adagio (15/8) by two lengths under old ally Jamie Moore.
The jockey said: “It is very emotional to be honest. He showed so much guts today.
“Fair play to the horse, he real ly knuckled down and battled as hard as he could. I’m extremely proud of him.”