Barry Geraghty hails Sprinter Sacre – Horseracing Update
Champion jockey, Barry Geraghty, has heaped applause on Nicky Henderson’s star gelding, Sprinter Sacre, for his excellent racing skills and termed him as ‘real deal’.
The renowned rider is of the view that the novice runner possesses great talent and skills which are destined to help him build up a promising career.
The six-year-old is the hot favourite for Racing Post Arkle Challenge Trophy Chase which is scheduled to be held on the first day of Cheltenham Festival, March 13. In the 2m Grade 1 contest, the talented gelding will run against 26 competitors to notch up
the ace title.
Sprinter Sacre’s rivals include Al Ferof, Astracad, Bagber, Baily Green, Blackstairmountain, Bog Warrior, Call The Police, Cristal Bonus, Cue Card, Escort’ men, Foildubh, For Non Stop, Kid Cassidy, Kumbeshwar, Lucky William, Menorah, Nearest The Pin, Pacha
Du Polder, Peddlers Cross, Realt Mor, Sanctuaire, Shot From The Hip, Sir Des Champs, Tajweed, Zaynar and Alasi.
Geraghty opines that Sprinter Sacre will perform well in the high-stakes event and register an outstanding victory provided he sustains his momentum.
In his word with the media last night, the jockey said, “He makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. He is the real deal. He's not amazing at home but when he's on the track he jumps, travels and does everything so easily.”
Remember, Sprinter Sacre accomplished a marvellous 16-length clean triumph in Peddlers Cross at Kempton on December 27, 2011. This made him a favourite for the bookmakers along with perking up his confidence.
Geraghty added, “He's not that keen in his races, we would have sat in behind Peddlers Cross at Kempton if he [Peddlers Cross] hadn't made a mistake at the first. He's very uncomplicated."
Starting his career on February 20, 2010, the Mrs Caroline Mould-owned gelding has won 6 out of his total 8 races to date. His wins include two NHF, Hurdle and Chase races each.
At the moment, Sprinter Sacre is at the peak of his form which, if he manages to sustain, will surely help him thrive in the Cheltenham Festival and some other events of the calendar year.
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