Smart Son Of Westerner Eases Clear In Maiden Hurdle

A step up in trip saw Wilful (5g Westerner – Shuil Milan, by Milan) run out an impressive winner of Thursday’s maiden hurdle at Fontwell.

Jonjo O’Neill’s got off the mark in a bumper in December and was narrowly denied on his hurdle bow earlier this month. He was sent off favourite to go one better as he stepped up to two miles and three furlongs, with the going described as heavy. Leading from the early stages, he drew clear after the second last and needed little encouragement from Jonjo O’Neill Junior to win by 28 lengths.

Wilful was bought by his trainer with Stroud Coleman Bloodstock at the Goffs Land Rover Sale for €105,000. Now owned by Mrs Fitri Hay, the son of Westerner was bred by Michael Murphy.