Improving Walk In The Park Mare Captures Grade 2 Prize

Ilovethenightlife (5m Walk In The Park - Belle des Londres, by King’s Theatre) continued on an upward curve on Saturday when running out a stylish winner of the Grade 2 Mares’ Novices’ Hurdle at Newbury.

The Joe Tizzard-trained bay came into the race with two hurdle wins to her name, as well as a Listed third, which saw her carry top-weight on Saturday. Racing in touch under Brendan Powell, she was travelling best at the second last and was ridden to lead after the final flight. Keeping on well, she won by two and a half lengths, going away.

“I've always held Ilovethenightlife in high regard,” Tizzard revealed after the race. “I thought 11st 12lb in this ground was a lot to ask of a five-year-old, but I couldn't believe how smooth it was watching it. Brendan rode her to a tee and she's an improver, but we've always liked her.” Looking ahead, he continued, “I'd say that will it for the season and she will jump a fence, but there's no rush to go chasing next season.”

Ilovethenightlife was sold by breeder Goldford Stud at the store sales to Tizzard and Peter and Ross Doyle for £80,000. The daughter of Walk In The Park is now owned by Geoff Nicholas with Susan and John Waterworth.