World Hurdle win headlines a thrilling three-timer for Tattersalls Ireland Graduates

The opener on day three, the Grade 1 JLT Novices’ Chase was won by February National Hunt Sale graduate BLACK HERCULES who came out on top after an exciting battle in the closing stages. Jumping superbly throughout the race, the son of the late Heron Island took the title three lengths clear of his challengers. BLACK HERCULES was sold in 2010 at the February National Hunt Sale for just €3,000 by Maplestown Stud to Emerald Bloodstock.

 

The 2017 Gold Cup is firmly on the mind of the connections of THISTLECRACK after his superb win of the Ryanair World Hurdle. The eight-year-old romped home seven lengths clear in a breath-taking performance that left trainer Colin Tizzard commenting “he’s gone from being a nice horse to being a superstar.”

John Snook, who owns THISTLECRACK with his wife Heather, purchase the son of Kayf Tara at the 2011 August National Hunt Sale as a three year old. He was sold by Derrymore House. THISTLECRACK was also sold at the 2008 November National Hunt Sale by Cobhall Court Stud for €32,000 to John McDonald.

2010 Derby Sale top lot EMPIRE OF DIRT produced an impressive performance to win the Grade 3 Brown Advisory and Merriebelle Stables Plate. Hampered badly at the third, the son of Westerner recovered quickly and impressed connections, winning the race by three lengths. EMPIRE OF DIRT topped the 2010 Derby Sale when selling to Bobby O’Ryan for €325,000 from Goldford Stud. Breeder Sean Harnedy also sold the gelding under Inchiquin Stud at the 2007 November National Hunt Sale for €65,000 to Goldford Stud.