Postponed Welsh National won by Mountainous and Yala Enki wins at Kempton
The Welsh National fell victim to the weather over Christmas, but the rearranged race took place over the weekend, with Mountainous taking the title for the second time. The 2013 winner was priced at 9/1 coming in to the race, but Jamie Moore guided him to glory at Chepstow.
Trainer Kerry Lee was full of praise for the first double winner of this race since 1989. Lee told Channel 4 that they have some big ambitions going forward. “I think the Grand National has to be his target now this season, he really enjoys soft ground and this kind of trip, so it has to be on the cards.”
The Lanazrote Hurdle also took place over the weekend, and Yala Enki took a comfortable victory in the Group One race at Kempton. Jockey Charlie Deutsch took him five lengths clear from the start and they held off a late challenge by Western Warrior to claim a comfortable win.
It was announced this week that Recorder will miss the 2000 Guineas and possibly the 2016 season after picking up an injury at the Acomb Stakes. Frankie Dettori led him to victory at that race in York, but not without sustaining an injury that will keep him out for five to six months.
Trainer William Haggas said, “It’s very sad, but it looks like he will miss at least the first six months of this year and we’re looking at making a decision as to whether we give the whole of 2016 a miss and look to come back as a four-year-old. The next forfeit stage for the 2000 Guineas isn’t until March, but I’ve already taken him out of the race.”
In better news, former Irish champion jump jockey Paul Townsend is returning to action, having been out injured since Boxing Day. He’s expected to return at Gowran Park next week.
