Croke Park produced a gutsy front-running performance to secure a narrow victory in the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse. Trained by Gordon Elliott, the 22-1 outsider held off fierce late challenges to claim the Grade One prize by a neck in a dramatic four-way finish.
Elliott dominated the small but competitive five-runner field with three entries, while Henry de Bromhead accounted for the other two contenders. Sam Ewing, aboard Croke Park, set the pace from the outset and dug deep when tested in the closing stages. Favourites Firefox and Heart Wood, along with the fast-finishing Gorgeous Tom, pressed hard, but Croke Park’s determination proved decisive.
Elliott: "That's What Racing Is About"
Elliott was delighted with the surprise win, especially given Croke Park’s prior modest form.
“He probably won an average beginners’ chase here last time, and I wasn’t sure the form was strong enough—but that’s why you run them in these races,” Elliott said. “If you’re not in, you can’t win.”
He praised Ewing’s ride and the competitive nature of the race.
“Sam gave him a great ride. It was a fantastic race, with four or five horses still in contention at the last. On another day, any of them could have won it.”
A Breakthrough for Croke Park
Previously seen as underwhelming given his price tag, Croke Park has now earned his Grade One victory, providing a satisfying result for his connections. Elliott also acknowledged the strong efforts of his other runners, including the favoured Firefox, who finished narrowly behind.
The win highlights Croke Park’s resilience and opens new possibilities for the gelding, who has finally delivered on his potential.