Connor Brace lives up to his name with power-packed double for O'Brien

Monday: Plumpton

Connor Brace lived up to his reputation with two power-packed winning rides for his boss Fergal O'Brien, headlined by Champagne Well's last-gasp victory in the feature 2m4½f handicap hurdle.

Brace, whose biggest career win came in the 2019 Scottish Champion Hurdle on Verdana Blue, has been plagued by injury in recent seasons but showcased his talents with the 157-1 double, initiated by Blue Bikini's victory in the opening 2m mares' maiden hurdle.

"It's always difficult for young jockeys when they lose their claim quickly and he had such a fantastic start, but with injuries the sport is so unforgiving. You've got to enjoy it when you're going well," O'Brien said.

"He lost his confidence a bit, but for the last three months he's been back full-time at the yard and is a massive addition. He's getting his just deserts now."

O'Brien was unsure whether Champagne Well had prevailed but was delighted the 20-1 outsider picked up a first victory in over two years with his nose success.

He added: "Photos are like penalty shoot-outs: you win some and you lose some. It was great to come out on top of one, that's for sure."

Brief relief for Bastyan

Mitchell Bastyan survived a late scare when easing up on King's Proctor after the final flight in the 2m handicap hurdle but held on to complete a double for in-form trainer Milton Harris.

His three-quarter-length success and Bill And Barn's victory in the 3m1f novice handicap chase continued Harris's great form after he finished October with a strike-rate of 31 per cent.

Bastyan picked up a three-day ban for his ride on King's Proctor and will be forced to sit out the action between November 15 and 17.

Results, replays and analysis

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