Jack Kennedy Triumphs in the Finale, Securing a Double Victory

The concluding maiden hurdle, spanning just under three miles, yielded a triumph for Gordon Elliott and his skilled jockey, Jack Kennedy, as they partnered with the 6/4 favourite, Lucky Lyreen. 

Earlier in the day, the same duo clinched victory in the opening race with Coko Beach, marking Kennedy's impressive 100th win of the campaign. Lucky Lyreen, a former champion in the bumper category, had displayed notable performances in his previous two hurdle appearances, setting the stage for his ascent to a longer distance. With a strategic move, Lucky Lyreen positioned himself near the front during the final circuit and surged ahead after gracefully clearing the penultimate hurdle. Despite momentarily losing focus while leading, the determined Kennedy urged the horse to maintain his momentum, ultimately fending off the spirited challenge from Kinturk Kalanisi by a notable margin of two and three-quarter lengths. 

Reflecting on the race, Kennedy shared, "He stays strong, idled in front but when something came to him he went on again. He lets you down a small bit with his jumping but I think he just loses concentration a little bit on a hurdle. Delighted for him to get off the mark." Earlier, when Kennedy reached the milestone of 100 wins for the season, the proud native of Dingle expressed his joy, extending gratitude to Gordon, the supportive owners, and his agent Kevin O'Ryan.