Wee Tiger and Eoin O'Brien at full stretch over the last flight when winning the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Handicap Hurdle. Photo: Patrick McCann

Wee Tiger scores again for Hackett at Limerick

The horses for courses theory is certainly true in the cased of the Ray Hackett trained Wee Tiger as he recorded his second victory in as many weeks when taking the three mile 89-109 handicap hurdle at Limerick on Thursday evening.

Having finished third over the course and distance behind Mill Quest earlier in the month, he returned to the venue a week or so later to land a two mile and six amateur handicap hurdle in the hands of Eoin O'Brien.

Showing no ill effects of two runs in quick succession, punters sent the Craigsteel gelding to post a warm favourite and in all honesty he gave them few anxious moments. O'Brien was again in the plate this time and his 7lb riding allowance was a crucial factor as he allowed Wee Tiger to bowl along right from the drop of the flag and although joined briefly going down the back straight the combination had enough in reserve to see off all comers and land the spoils by a length and threeparts from Whatever It Takes.

This must rate as a fine display by the winner as he was shouldering a 6lb penalty for his previous victory. On the evidence supplied here he still looks ahead of the handicapper especially if connections retain the services of Eoin O'Brien who is great value for his riding allowance. Ray Hackett has done a fine job in keeping his charge fresh as three quick runs would test the resolve of most horses but he likes the good ground and hay must be made while the sun shines.

 

To read more, pick up a copy of this weeks Nenagh Guardian locally or subscribe to our e-paper to access it online each Wednesday.