Soldier Of Fortune Gelding Takes Scottish Champion Hurdle

Saturday saw talented novice Favour And Fortune (6g Soldier Of Fortune – Fleur Rose, by Flemensfirth) gained a well-deserved black-type win in the Grade 2 Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr.

A dual bumper winner, the Alan King-trained gelding won his first two starts over hurdles before finishing second in the Grade 1 Tolworth Hurdle. Partnered by regular rider Tom Cannon at Ayr, he raced in touch with the leaders and improved to lead after the second last. He kept on well when challenged on the run-in to win by half a length.

“He's a beautiful-actioned horse,” Alan King said after the race. “I've always loved him and he's certainly the best of my novices. I'd like to stay over hurdles with him, he's not had a lot of racing.”

The Soldier Of Fortune gelding is owned by Hemmings Racing and was bred by Ballymorisheen Stables.