Kingston Pride off to a flyer over fences

The highlight on an eight race card at Perth on Tuesday was the three runner beginners chase. The two and a half miles event featured two of last year's Top 40 Prospects, namely Kingston Pride and Tripoli Flyer. The latter was heavily supported beforehand and was still going well when parting company with Jonathan Burke at the third last. In contrast, the former who was having his first run for Olly Murphy having been purchased for £285,000 last spring, responded to Sean Bowen's urgings to lead after the last before drawing clear of the pace setting and Grade 2 winning novice hurdle Jet To Vegas. A two and three quarter lengths winner, the former Nicky Henderson trained runner drifted alarmingly beforehand (9/2) - presumably due to the softening ground - but defied that in convincing style. According to Race Iq, Kingston Pride covered the final three furlongs in 13.36, 13.97 and 12.90 seconds, compared to Lucinda Russell's runner-up 13.81, 14.34 and 13.61 seconds, Rated 132 over hurdles, the ex-pointer has the potential to mix it at Graded level over fences. 

Murphy also won the two and a half miles maiden hurdle courtesy of Scorpio Rising who had shown signs of ability in a couple of runs last term. The Jukebox Jury gelding was well backed in the ring before staying on strongly to win snugly by two and a quarter lengths. The runner-up Sleedagh lacked a change of gear when the tempo lifted in the homestraight but it won't be long before Lucinda Russell's charge goes one better on a stiff track or over further. A stout stayer, he is capable of winning races.

All orders for One Jump Ahead received before noon on Tuesday have been posted. Those which have arrived since will be sent out on Wednesday.