Smart Soldier Of Fortune Gelding Impresses On Hurdle Debut

Smart bumper horse Favour And Fortune (5g Soldier Of Fortune - Fleur Rose, by Flemensfirth) made an impressive start over hurdles at Hereford on Tuesday.

Alan King’s charge drew clear on his first two starts last season and was sent off favourite for the two mile Novices’ Hurdle on his seasonal return. Settled in midfield by Tom Cannon, he improved into third with three flights to jump and led on the turn for home. Soon in command, he needed little encouragement to ease 13 lengths clear on the line.

Speaking after the race, the winning trainer said, “We were delighted, but also relieved. We've always thought he was a very good horse – it's great when they go and do it like that first time. He'd had a good summer and we've been happy with his work this autumn.”

Bred by Ballymorisheen Stables, the smart prospect carries the familiar silks of Hemmings Racing.

The finale saw Future Fortune (4f Soldier Of Fortune - Magic Money, by Midnight Legend) make a winning debut to complete a double on the card for Soldier Of Fortune.

The Warren Greatrex-trained newcomer was one of 13 runners to line up for the bumper and chased the leader for much of the two mile contest. Leading before the two furlong pole, she kept on well under pressure to win by three parts of a length under James Bowen. A pair of more experienced rivals chased her home, including six-figure point-to-point purchase Bellas Bridge in third.

Future Fortune was bred by Ballinaroone Stud and is owned by Dejeuner De Dames.