Son Of Westerner Shapes Into Promising Hurdler

The Gary Moore-trained Black Gerry (5g Westerner - Triptoshan, by Anshan) looked a nice prospect when winning Monday’s Novices’ Hurdle at Lingfield.

Bought for £66,000 after finishing a close second on his sole start in a point-to-point for Donnchadh Doyle, he shaped with promise on his hurdle debut last month. He was sent off second favourite on his latest start over two miles on heavy ground, with Jamie Moore riding him to chase the leaders. Ridden approaching the second last, he soon joined the leader and favourite Young Lieutenant and asserted before the final flight. Staying on well, he scored by four and a half lengths, the front pair finishing clear of the field.

Owned by Mrs Mary Devine and bred by Cathal Ennis, Black Gerry continues a fine season for Castlehyde Stud sire Westerner. He is a half-brother to three winners by Oscar, including talented chaser Minella Times, while his Westerner full-brother sold for €75,000 at last year’s Derby Sale.