'It's been excellent' - Walford continues red-hot run as major gamble lands

The outstanding form of the Robert Walford stable did not go unnoticed at Plumpton on Wednesday as One For Dunstan landed a huge gamble, having been backed into 13-2 (from 25) for the 3m1f handicap hurdle.

Connections were not sure what to expect from the six-year-old after three disappointing efforts this season, but three of Walford's last four runners had hit the target and the red-hot run continued.

Under Bryan Carver, One For Dunstan came out best in a three-way battle to the line as he held off 9-4 favourite Pride Of Pemberley by three and a quarter lengths.

"It's been excellent," said the Dorset trainer. "He'd been disappointing over fences so we dropped him back over hurdles. I hope one day he'll go chasing again as he's a very good jumper, it just hasn't worked out yet.

"He's got a lot of owners but I'm not sure they'd have had a lot of money on."

Roque solid

Owner Bryan Drew is quickly developing one of the most exciting strings of young horses and Gericault Roque emerged as another with a smart winning debut over hurdles.

Gericault Roque: impressive winner at PlumptonCredit: Alan Crowhurst / Getty Images

The David Pipe-trained runner was ridden patiently and stayed on strongly under Tom Scudamore to deny 4-6 favourite Natural History in a competitive 2m maiden hurdle.

Pipe, who doubled up at Leicester, believes Gericault Roque is another nice young prospect for Drew, who has seen Bravemansgame and Adagio capture Grade 1 honours in recent weeks.

"I was really pleased with the performance," said Pipe. "He's a horse we've always liked although he'll be better next year. He's got a nice bit of ability so hopefully he'll progress further."

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