Australia Day turned what looked a competitive totescoop6 Summer Hurdle at Market Rasen into a procession in the hands of Denis O'Regan.
Paul Webber's gelding was never going to lack for fitness following a fine fourth in Royal Ascot's Duke Of Edinburgh Handicap and a subsequent second at Sandown, and O'Regan sent the grey straight to the head of affairs.
While the likes of well-supported favourite Inventor failed to land a blow, Australia Day (7-1) continued to pour it on at the head of affairs and a couple of prodigious leaps in the home straight sealed a 19-length success.
Gloucester narrowly edged out Stage Acclaim for the runner-up spot.
"I went and sat on him during the week and he gave me a good old feel that day," said O'Regan.
"He was obviously fit from the Flat and Paul told we to watch the races Kieren Fallon and Martin Dwyer had ridden on him the last couple of times.
"I did that, but in the end it hasn't made much difference as he has done it so well. He can be a bit keen at home, but he settled well during the race and his jumping was electric.
"He put the revs up in the straight and jumped the last two brilliant. He should have a bright future and hopefully chasing will be his game."
Posts
