Son Of Walk In The Park Wins Beginners Chase In Good Style

Talented hurdler Monty’s Star (6g Walk In The Park – Tempest Belle, by Glacial Storm) built on a promising chase debut to take Saturday’s Beginners Chase at Punchestown.

Henry de Bromhead’s charge won a Grade 3 novice hurdle last season and returned in early December to finish third on his first start over fences. Returning to his preferred three mile trip at Punchestown, he jumped well throughout under Rachael Blackmore and began to draw clear with one other rival from four out. Leading at the second last, he stayed on well to beat the favourite by five and a half lengths, with another 34 lengths back to their nearest rival.

“Monty Star's jumping is his greatest asset,” Blackmore said after the race. “It is tough ground to be jumping out of but he did it well. He galloped to the line and improved from the last day.”

Owned by Barry Moloney, Monty’s Star was purchased privately by connections following two seconds between the flags for Colin Bowe. The half-brother to Grade 1 winner Monalee (Milan) was bred by Aidan Aherne.