Peaky Boy showcased his potential for improvement with a determined win in the mallardjewellers.com Novices’ Limited Handicap Chase at Cheltenham, giving trainer Nicky Henderson and jockey Nico de Boinville another notable success.
The six-year-old, unbeaten in two hurdle starts at Prestbury Park last season, took time to find his rhythm but finished powerfully to claim a two-and-a-half-length victory over Westerninthepark as the 9-5 favourite.
De Boinville reflected on the performance, saying:
"I’d say we’ll probably look to step him up in trip now. That was sharp enough for him. He’s very slick and has been good at home from day one, so I’m delighted with how he knuckled down and worked hard today."
Henderson acknowledged Peaky Boy’s inexperience but praised his progression:
"He wasn’t travelling as well as I thought he would early on, but don’t forget, he’s only had two runs over hurdles. This is a tricky course, and asking him to jump these fences was a test of his inexperience. There’s a lot more to come."
"His jumping was good and tidy, and while I don’t think we’re in a rush, I expect he’ll be stepping up to three miles soon. Bringing him here first time over fences was a bold move, but I think it paid off."
Elsewhere at the November Meeting, Ace Of Spades displayed remarkable grit to claim victory in the Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice Maiden Hurdle for trainer Dan Skelton and jockey Harry Skelton. Despite being overtaken by Whimsy and Country Park approaching the final hurdle, the five-year-old rallied fiercely to regain the lead and win by a length as the even-money favourite.
Both performances highlighted the determination and promise of their respective connections during an exciting November Meeting at Cheltenham.