Son Of Ocovango Emerges As Exciting Prospect At Galway

Champ Kiely (6g Ocovango - Cregg So, by Moscow Society) made a hugely impressive return to action in Wednesday’s maiden hurdle at the Galway Festival.

The son of Ocovango made a winning start for Willie Mullins in a bumper last year and was well-supported on return from a long absence. Ridden prominently by Paul Townend, he was travelling well when three lengths clear jumping the second last. Drawing further clear approaching the final flight, he needed little encouragement to score by all of 21 lengths.

“That looked very good,” Mullins commented after the race. “He looks a real jumping sort. I know he is only starting his novice hurdle career, but I'm already looking forward to him going over fences. I think there was a lot of confidence behind the favourite, so to come out and beat a 102-rated Flat horse like that was very good.”

Champ Kiely is owned by Miss Masterson, having been purchased privately after one start for Pat Doyle. The son of Beeches Stud sire Ocovango was bred by Ian Dullea.