Act Of Authority
Act Of Authority did well to get as close as he did in the two-mile-five-furlong handicap hurdle at Warwick last Saturday. They didn't go a great pace, which wasn't ideal. Act Of Authority was held up towards the rear of the six-runner field from early, and he got a little out-paced when they quickened at the top of the home straight. Fifth of the six runners and under a ride when they straightened up for home, he stayed on well for Lewis Saunders from the second last flight to get the better of No Ordinary Joe for third place behind Irish Hill, who made most of the running, with the first four finishing clear of their two rivals.
A dual winner over hurdles in November, and winner of his only point-to-point for Ellmarie Holden, Olly Murphy's horse saw out this trip well, the longest trip over which he has ever raced under Rules, clocking the fastest final furlong in the race. He should be seen to better effect off a stronger pace at this trip. He has had plenty of racing, but he is only seven and he remains progressive, his last four performances have been the best four of his career. Also, interestingly, he has put up the best three performances of his life on the three occasions on which Lewis Saunders has ridden him, which augurs well if the plan is to keep that partnership intact and go for the Martin Pipe Conditional Jockeys' Hurdle at Cheltenham.
Warwick, 8th February 2025
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