Son Of Getaway Takes Grade 2 On Chase Debut

Danny Whizzbang (6g Getaway - Lakil Princess, by Bering) began his chasing career in the best possible way when extending his winning run to four in the Grade 2 John Francome Novices’ Chase at Newbury.

Bought for €115,000 after winning his point-to-point for Colin Bowe last April, he went on to win both his starts over hurdles last season for Paul Nicholls and owner Mrs Angela Tincknell. Harry Cobden rode him on return, positioning him behind the leading pair and asked him to quick with four left to jump. Leading from three out, he stayed on well to win by four lengths, as dual Grade 1 winner Reserve Tank was relegated to second.

Nicholls later mentioned the RSA Chase as a possible target for the winner, who he said will “improve massively.” The son of Grange Stud sire Getaway was bred by Minch Bloodstock out of a half-sister to multiple Graded winner Moskova, herself the dam of black-type performers Moyhenna (Westerner) and Moskovite (Flemensfirth).

Another son of Getaway to make a winning seasonal return on the day was the Joseph O’Brien-trained Assemble (5g Getaway - Annaghbrack, by Rudimentary), who showed an admirable attitude to win the two mile bumper at Fairhouse.

Twice fourth last December, he was ridden by Oakley Brown on his belated return and chased the leaders for much of the way. Making headway to lead before the two furlong marker, he was headed by Eskylane (Flemensfirth) approaching the final furlong. Staying on well under pressure, he regained the advantage close home and won by a head.

O’Brien later commented, “He did well over the winter and Oakley gave him a great ride. I think he's a decent horse and he showed a good attitude. He'll go novice hurdling now.”