Progressive Hurdler Continues Fine Run For Westerner

Ebony Jewel (5g Westerner - Lady Roania, by Saddlers’ Hall) built on some promising performances to justify favoritism in the Novices’ Hurdle at Haydock on Monday.

Bought by Tom Malone after finishing second on debut for Ronnie O’Leary, the bay followed up with a 12 length bumper success in March and has since finished third in both his starts over hurdles.

Lucy Alexander took the ride on Monday and rode him to lead. Headed three from home, he was pushed along to regain the advantage a flight later and showed a good attitude to hold off First Lord De Cuet by three parts of a length on the line.

Nick Alexander, who trains the winner for Mrs Lynne Maclennan, later commented, “He'll stay further and is a nice horse to look forward to. He might end up good enough for the Premier Hurdle at Kelso.” The son of Westerner was bred by Mrs Karen McLoughney