Walk In The Park 1-2 In Rated Novice Hurdle

Sa Fureur (6g Walk In The Park - Ma Furie, by Balleroy) took another step forward on Monday to take the Rated Novice Hurdle at Punchestown.

Runner-up on hurdle debut last month, the Gordon Elliott-trained bay ran out a commanding winner at the track two weeks ago and was sent off favourite as he stepped up to two and a half miles. Travelling strongly throughout, he was ridden prominently by Rob James and produced a challenged two from home. Leading approaching the final flight, he was briefly headed soon after, but battled back to lead by half a length on the line. La Malmason completed a 1-2 for Grange Stud sire Walk In The Park and finished seven lengths clear of the third.

“He picked up well and had loads left,” the winning rider said after the race. “He was just galloping out to the line and the other horse was never getting past. He's only a big baby and he'll probably be a better horse next year again. He's improving the whole time.”

Owned by Caldwell Construction, Sa Fureur was bred by the Honourable Mrs VMA Tower and is a half-brother to Grade 2 performer Sandymount Rose (Yeats).