Soldier Of Fortune Gelding Wins Competitive Novice Chase

Crebilly (7g Soldier Of Fortune – Blueberry Bramble, by Pistolet Bleu) produced a smart performance to beat two Graded performers in the Novices’ Chase at Exeter on Sunday.

The Jonjo O’Neill-trained bay was partnered by Jonjo O’Neill Junior and was asked to challenge after the second last. Keeping on well from the final fence, he quickened to lead close home and won by a length and a quarter. Grade 1 winner Tahmuras finished second, while Grade 2 performer Trelawne took third.

Owned by JP McManus and bred by JF Mernagh, Crebilly adds to two wins over hurdles last season. The Soldier Of Fortune gelding began his career with Gerald Quinn, who sold him for £100,000 following his debut third in a four-year-old maiden at Kirkistown.