Son Of Mahler Back To Best In Listed Contest

A flawless round of jumping and a sounder surface saw Ok Corral (10g Mahler - Acoola, by Flemensfirth) return to winning ways in the Listed three mile chase at Doncaster.

The Nicky Henderson-trained bay was reunited with Derek O’Connor on Saturday, the pair having won a similar contest last January, and the top amateur rider positioned his mount to track the leaders. Pushed along from four out, he produced a strong challenge at the second last, with Ok Corral reacting well to pressure and leading close home.

Speaking after the race, O’Connor said, “I had a willing partner, he jumped and travelled exceptionally well. He's probably not a stayer, he loved that kind of speedy track - he could be an Aintree horse.”

Now a six-time winner, Ok Corral is owned by JP McManus and was bought by his trainer as a three-year-old for €90,000. Bred by Declan Dorgan, he comes from the first crop of Beeches Stud sire Mahler, who commands €5,500 in 2020.