Amen Kate has ignited hopes of a Cheltenham appearance for Tom Cooper with her victory in the Billy Harney Memorial Ireland EBF Boreen Bell Meares Novice Hurdle at Thurles. Jockey Jack Kennedy, riding the daughter of Grade 1 winner Augusta Kate, now has a 4-1 chance for Listed honors after the filly bounced back strongly from a previous mishap where she unseated her rider at the start at Punchestown.
Amen Kate outperformed favorite Corinthia, trained by Willie Mullins, by two and a quarter lengths, positioning herself as a potential contender for the March event at Prestbury Park. Cooper praised her toughness and composure, noting that she handled the pace and jumps well and was comfortable throughout the race. Despite a disappointing previous race where she hesitated at the start, the team has addressed her issues, and she’s showing great improvement. The filly carries strong bloodlines, with both her dam and second dam being Group 1 winners, and though she is smaller in stature, she is larger than those two.
Cooper suggested that Amen Kate is likely to head straight to the new Cheltenham fillies’ race, confident that the track will suit her. On another note, in the Adare Manor Opportunity Handicap Chase, Jonathan Sweeney’s Rushmount impressed as the 11-4 favorite under Philip Donovan, despite carrying the top weight in a challenging race. Sweeney highlighted the horse’s readiness, noting past experience at Leopardstown and a preference for better ground conditions. Plans for Rushmount’s next race include the possibility of Cheltenham as a promising venue.
Fan Take: This update is exciting for horse racing enthusiasts as it highlights emerging talents poised to make a mark at Cheltenham, one of the sport’s premier events. The success of horses like Amen Kate and Rushmount underscores the depth of skill and pedigree in the field, promising thrilling competition and memorable performances ahead.
