Grade 1 Son Of Mahler Makes Successful Chase Debut

Talented hurdler Ok Corral (8g Mahler - Acoola, by Flemensfirth) looks to have a bright future over the larger obstacles after winning his chase debut in fine style on Monday.

Last year’s Albert Bartlett runner-up was sent off favourite for the Novices’ Chase at Plumpton, contesting soft ground for the three mile and one and a half furlong test. Ridden positively by Barry Geraghty, the Nicky Henderson-trained horse took the lead at halfway and was two lengths clear with two fences left to jump. Jumping the final fence well, he was pushed out to beat Impulsive Star by two and a quarter lengths.

J.P. McManus’s charge holds an entry in a Grade 2 at Ascot on Friday and may also be aimed at the RSA Novices’ Chase at the Cheltenham Festival. Bred by Declan Dorgan, Ok Corral cost Nicky Henderson €90,000 at the Tattersalls Ireland Derby Sale.