Blackmore and De Bromhead strike again as Bob Olinger battles to dethrone Stayers' Hurdle champ Teahupoo
Jockey Rachael Blackmore and trainer Henry de Bromhead celebrate with the cup after winning the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle on Bob Olinger. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
Bob Olinger maintained his flawless Cheltenham Festival record when storming up the hill to take the Paddy Power Stayers' Hurdle under Rachael Blackmore.
Henry de Bromhead's 10-year-old was seemingly the second string for owners Robcour, with their reigning champion Teahupoo the 7-4 favourite for Gordon Elliott.
It was those two horses involved in the finish as Jack Kennedy rode the latter, but after they locked horns jumping the last, it was Bob Olinger who came out on top by a length and threequarters to triumph at 8-1.
“He was brilliant, he has so much speed," said Blackmore. "Everyone had the same plan. It either works riding like that or he doesn’t. He’s unbeaten run here. He’s had luck on his side and he’s a very good horse."
Added De Bromhead: “Rachael was brilliant on him. Home By The Lee was unlucky, we got on the right side. She’s an incredible lady. He’s unbeaten round here, he’s incredible, such a dude.”
