What a way to end the year with a winning hurdling debut and HOTSR debut for Wertpol! Big congratulations to his new Owners – what a day it was!
Having only purchased Wertpol at the end of October, trainer Harry Derham had been particularly pleased with the horses homework and his schooling. He felt the horse was crying out for a trip and hurdles and we were all excited to see him have his first run over jumps.
The Juvenile contest was fairly competitive with a few more experienced types and the plan was to have Wertpol fairly handy, allowing him plenty of daylight at his hurdles and giving him the chance to get into a rhythm. The horse adopted a lovely position and travelled very strongly throughout his race. He was green and his jumping was a little novicey at times but when he came under pressure not only did the young horse really try, but he showed he has an engine by winning in an impressive manner. He seemed to very much enjoy his first run over hurdles and loved the ground too.
It was once again another excellent ride by Paul O’Brien who was delighted with Wertpol and feels he will have learnt plenty and has a bright future ahead of him in this sphere!
Wertpol looked really pleased with himself post his win and was LOVING the attention from all of his new Owners. Most importantly the horse has come out of his win sound and well and will be given a few weeks before he targets another race.
We would like to say a big thank you to the Harry Derham team and also to Megan Nicholls who purchased him for us. It really was the best way to round off what has been a very up and down year for HOTSR, and we cannot wait for his next race!
Please see below some photographs taken on the day by ourselves.
