Warren Greatrex, a prominent trainer, has secured the training of Mighty Bandit for the highly anticipated Triumph Hurdle at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival.
The four-year-old gelding fetched an impressive price of €420,000 at the esteemed Tattersalls Ireland sale held at Fairyhouse. This sale marked the dispersal of horses owned by Andy and Gemma Brown, who recently surprised the racing world with their decision to retire from the sport.
Among the notable purchases at the sale, Caldwell Potter, a Grade One-winning horse, stole the spotlight, commanding a price of €740,000 and is now set to join the stables of renowned trainer Paul Nicholls. Following closely behind were Fil Dor (€620,000), Pied Piper (€570,000), and Staffordshire Knot (€510,000), all destined to return under the guidance of Gordon Elliott. Mighty Bandit, securing the fifth spot on the list, was acquired by Jim and Claire Bryce, who also happen to be Greatrex's landlords at the prestigious Rhonehurst yard in Lambourn.
Greatrex expressed his delight in acquiring Mighty Bandit, underlining the horse's promising prospects. He conveyed his gratitude to Jim and Claire for their support and highlighted the uniqueness of the sale, noting that it showcased horses in their prime rather than at the end of their careers. Reflecting on Mighty Bandit's past performance, Greatrex revealed that the underwhelming display as a favourite at Leopardstown's Christmas Festival had a valid explanation, instilling hope for an impressive showing in the upcoming races.