Son Of Flemensfirth Rises To Grade 3 Challenge

A step up in trip saw Jett (8g Flemensfirth - La Noire, by Presenting) produce a career-best performance to land Wednesday’s Grade 3 chase at Punchestown.

The three mile and one furlong trip presented a significant test of stamina for the Jessica Harrington-trained bay, who won a Grade 2 over two and a half miles last season. He was ridden to chase the leaders by Robbie Power, jumped well throughout and asserted from the third last. Joined by Alpha Des Obeaux on the run-in, he tapped into extra reserves to regain the advantage close home, as they drew seven and a half lengths clear of the third horse.

Speaking after the race, the winning trainer said, “He loves small fields and he loves that ground, and finally the trainer put him in over the right distance. He won't be a horse to run in handicaps and we will try to find some Grade 2 and Grade 3 chases for him over three miles.”

Harrington mentioned the Charlie Hall Chase as a possible option for Gerard McGrath’s homebred, who is a half-brother to champion hurdler Jezki (Milan), top-class hurdler Jered, Grade 1 winner Jetson (Oscar) and Grade 2 victor Jenari (Milan).