Successive Victories and Pertemps Strategies in the McNamara Camp

Falco Blitz (3/1) emerged as a fitting local champion for Limerick's Good Luck To All Irish Runners At Cheltenham Veterans Chase today, delighting connections with aspirations for the upcoming Cheltenham races. The victory was sealed by trainer Eric McNamara and his son, jockey Conor McNamara.

With a recent triumph at Thurles in January, the ten-year-old Falco Blitz secured another win today, triumphing over Sir Bob by 6.5 lengths, much to the joy of owner Shane Carmody.

In a light-hearted moment, McNamara junior humorously remarked,

“Dad has jetted off to Lanzarote for the Cheltenham week — claiming he's basking in the sun. Unless he manages to squeeze some sunshine through the bar window, he might find it a challenge!”

“Alpesh Amin and Noble Birth are both on standby, waiting for one and two horses to withdraw, respectively, to secure a spot in the Pertemps Final next Thursday. In a typical week, they would have made it, but this year, it's a close call. They're in fine form and progressing well,”

he added.

Reflecting on his partnership with his father, he noted,

“We share a great working relationship and this season, we've been fortunate to handle a slightly superior breed of horses compared to previous years. Our gaze is already set on the future, as a single successful season is insufficient, unfortunately.

“These races designed for older horses are truly beneficial, offering an opportunity for horses like Falco Blitz to maintain their morale. He was fortunate that everything aligned in his favour during the last Thurles race.

“Today, he showed a touch more pace than his competitors, and I tactfully manoeuvred him to advantage when Jordan Gainford (riding Royal Thief) began to struggle. The slight reserve I preserved ultimately contributed to our victorious finish.”