Three Standout Performances - 14/01/2019

Tim Vaughan's Briac always seems to prove a nightmare to back, and surprises all when winning at big odds when on paper he should not.

That is exactly what the 8yo did today, after falling and being pulled up in two of his last three starts, he landed the race named after his trainer cosily in soft conditions, pulling clear by nine lengths.

Hard to fancy beforehand, he did run fairly well over 2m1f last time out - which was only his second start for Vaughan, and there were question marks surrounding the four furlong lift.

Held up early on, he made steady progress at the 8th, led approaching the 2nd last, and went on to a comfortable success.

Dallas Des Pictons looks another major player at Gordon Elliott's disposal ahead of the Cheltenham Festival in March, after his easy victory in a maiden at Punchestown.

The Watch Racing TV With Free Trial Now Maiden Hurdle was over 2m4f, and Dallas Des Picton - ridden by Jack Kennedy, followed up his close effort at Leopardstown on Boxing Day by storming ten lengths clear, having made eye-catching progress on the bend for home.

Couple of 'novicey' errors which can be easily corrected, the 6yo improved going best to lead after two-out, and extended his advantage.

Always in command, he stayed on well, and who knows, Elliot may have some decisions to make in the next few weeks.

Brendan Powell's My Destiny led home a monster exacta, having won at odds of 66/1, he was followed by the second Carrick's Road at 40/1, and the third Crossley Tender placing incredibly at 100/1.

The main fancy for the race - Umndeni, unseated Champion Jockey Richard Johnson just moments into the race, leaving the contest wide open.

However, there were still plenty of shorties available in the market compared to the three that went onto finish in the placings.

Young Brendan Powell chased the early leaders aboard the 6yo trained by his dad. He began his effort when moving to lead two-out, and despite edging left and being hard pressed in the final 100 yards, he held on by a nose.