Trainer Andrew Slattery is optimistic about the potential of Fleur In The Park, who marked an impressive start to his hurdling career at Wexford. The horse, previously successful in bumpers, demonstrated his experience and talent by winning the BoyleSports Best Odds Guaranteed Maiden Hurdle as the 11-10 favourite, clinching victory by a comfortable length and a half.
With aspirations for the future, Slattery has targeted the Grade Three Monksfield Novice Hurdle at Navan as Fleur In The Park's next outing, suggesting an increase in both grade and distance could be on the horizon. He noted, “He’s suited to two and a half to three miles; I knew he’d perform well over two if he lives up to my expectations.”
Jockey Cian Quirke commented on the horse's performance, mentioning that he felt Fleur In The Park had plenty left in the tank after an effortless win. Slattery had initially held back on pushing the horse too hard in bumpers to preserve his chances for the future. He remains confident that there is more to come as the season progresses, hinting at potential participation in the prestigious Albert Bartlett at the Cheltenham Festival in March.
On another note at the event, a surprising turn unfolded in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Hurdle when 1-10 favourite Aurora Vega was pulled up by jockey Paul Townend, granting victory to 8-1 underdog Ms Agartha Yeats. Aurora Vega was later reported to show clinical abnormalities post-race.