Gordon Elliott is determined to reclaim the Bar One Racing Drinmore Novice Chase title at Fairyhouse on December 1, a race he has won a record seven times with stars such as Don Cossack and Mighty Potter. After missing out last year, Elliott is pulling out all the stops to secure victory in this year’s renewal.
Drinmore Focus
Elliott has entered 16 of the 25 contenders for the Grade One chase and anticipates fielding three or four runners. Likely participants include:
- Farren Glory
- Shecouldbeanything
- Croke Park
- Better Days Ahead, fresh off an impressive debut chase victory at Navan.
Discussing Better Days Ahead, Elliott remarked:
“He’s grown stronger from last year, and his performance was even better than I anticipated. We’ll see how things go, but the Drinmore is a strong possibility for him.”
Promising Novice Talent
Elliott is enthusiastic about his current crop of novices, highlighting a rebuilding process that’s bearing fruit.
Romeo Coolio
The Champion Bumper runner-up has already showcased his potential with an emphatic 18-length maiden hurdle win at Down Royal. His next stop is the Bar One Racing Royal Bond Novice Hurdle. Elliott commented:
“He’s classy and quick. The Royal Bond is the plan, and while he could handle two and a half miles, his speed makes him perfect for two.”
Kala Conti
A winner on her Down Royal reappearance, Kala Conti will aim for the WillowWarm Hurdle at Fairyhouse after finishing second at last year’s Winter Festival. Elliott said:
“She’s back to her best and was excellent at Down Royal. We’re optimistic for her next outing.”
Family and Festival Spirit
Elliott, a local of Meath, is particularly eager for success at the Fairyhouse Winter Festival, which holds personal significance:
“It’s a big day with friends and family. I’ll have strong representation across the card, including the bumper—it would be great to win that, too.”
Elliott’s well-stocked roster sets him up for a strong showing at Fairyhouse, as he looks to dominate one of the season's key meetings.