Knocknanuss

Knocknanuss put up a really impressive performance to win the 2m novices’ handicap chase. Gary Moore’s horse was very keen through the early stages of the race, but Jamie Moore allowed him stride on as they jumped the water in front of the stands, and he settled a little better in front. Still a little keen down the back straight, his jumping was very good, and he quickly had his rivals strung out.

There was always a chance that his early exertions would take their toll in the closing stages of the race, but they didn’t. He just came further and further clear over the last three fences and, actually, it was his rivals who got tired. The Last Day was a tired horse in second place when he fell at the last. The winner was eased down close home, but he still clocked a good time, and he won by 17l. He is eight years old, but this was just his third chase, so he should continue to progress. He should be a graded chaser. He could even be an Arkle horse. His trainer said that he needs to go left-handed and, out of a half-sister to Dato Star, he will be of interest wherever he goes next.

Newbury, 30^th November 2018