Triplicate

Triplicate ran a big race to finish second in the Royal Bond Hurdle when he didn't really have the run of the race. It was a tactical race, and Ruby Walsh was very good in dictating his own fractions in front on Quick Grabim. Triplicate was in behind the leader along the inside. His jumping was good with the exception of a slight mistake at the fourth last flight, but he found himself behind his three rivals as they rounded the home turn, which wasn't ideal off a sedate pace. They quickened down to the second last flight and, moved towards the outside by Mark Walsh, Triplicate picked up well. The Joseph O'Brien-trained gelding just couldn't reel in a classy rival who had the run of the race in front and who was able to pick up off the sedate pace that he set, but he got past two talented rivals in Commander Of Fleet and Aramon to take the runner-up spot.

Two for three on the flat for Aidan O'Brien, JP McManus' horse beat Aramon at Listowel in September, and he got closer to Quick Grabim here than he did at Tipperary in October, on 4lb better terms. By Galileo out of a Group placed Danehill Dancer mare, he is only five and this was just his fifth run over hurdles, so he should continue to progress. He should do better off a stronger pace.

Fairyhouse, 2^nd December 2018

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