Search

show me:

Mixed emotions for Jonjo O'Neill after Irish Gold Cup

3 minute read

Jonjo O'Neill is keen for More Of That to be given the green light to contest next month's Timico Cheltenham Gold Cup.

More Of That winning the Ladbrokes World Hurdle (Grade 1) Chase
More Of That winning the Ladbrokes World Hurdle (Grade 1) Chase Picture: Pat Healy Photography

After failing to feature in his first three starts this season, the 2014 World Hurdle winner was in the process of running a big race in the Irish Gold Cup at Leopardstown on Sunday when unseating Mark Walsh at the final fence.

Although plans remain fluid for the nine-year-old, the Jackdaws Castle handler believes that the latest display from the JP McManus-owned gelding merits him being given a tilt at the blue riband on March 17.

O'Neill said: "He showed a bit of his old enthusiasm, which was nice. While it is easy to say he could have done this or that, it was just nice to see him there with a chance.

"We think he probably would have been placed at best but if you told me yesterday morning he was going to do that, I would have been thrilled to bits.

"The way he travelled through the race and the zest he had, we've not seen for a while so it was nice to see that.

"I would be delighted to have a go at it (Gold Cup) but I will have to talk to Frank (Berry, racing manager) and everyone else first as nothing has been discussed yet."

More Of That could be joined in the Prestbury Park feature by potential Randox Health Grand National contender Minella Rocco, who was an early casualty in the Grade One at the Dublin track.

O'Neill said: "He made a silly mistake and banked the fence. If he was to do that in the National, he would get a proper shock.

"If he does go for the National that was not the ideal prep. We will see what weight he gets for the National and see what happens after that.

"We do think he is a nice horse, though. He could run in the Gold Cup but we have not discussed it yet. You would like to think he can run somewhere at Cheltenham."


At The Races

What are you really gambling with?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au