- Source: shutterstock.com/ru/g/MickAtkins)
Naturally Nimble, a 33-1 outsider trained by Joseph O’Brien, delivered a stunning upset by defeating odds-on favourite Willy De Houelle in the Bar One Racing “Price Boosts Across All Channels” Juvenile Hurdle at Fairyhouse.
Making just his second start over hurdles, Naturally Nimble, ridden by Richard Deegan, showed a sharp turn of foot in the closing stages to triumph by a length and a half. The victory came as a surprise, as the colt had been well-beaten on his hurdling debut. However, his solid Flat form and notable pedigree—being a half-brother to German Group-winning sprinter Namos—hinted at his potential.
Deegan explained the team’s strategy after the initial disappointment in his first hurdle outing:
“He disappointed us a bit last week, so we decided to take a more cautious approach here. They went a strong pace, and when the race fell apart in front, he was in the right place to capitalise. He stayed on really well.”
Naturally Nimble, who prefers good ground, is now quoted at 20-1 for the JCB Triumph Hurdle by Coral, marking him as a potential contender for Cheltenham in the spring.