Memories of Dessie as Paisley Park and Thyme Hill serve up an Ascot classic

When noted equine vet and cardiology expert Celia Marr examined Paisley Park in Newmarket nine months ago, she reported to trainer Emma Lavelle that her famous patient had an unusually big heart. Marr saw it that day. We saw it this day.

What took place at Ascot was one of the most stirring jump racing sights the royal racecourse has hosted since Desert Orchid overhauled Panto Prince in the closing stages of the 1989 Victor Chandler Chase.

Dessie was the very definition of courage, a horse who ran himself ragged and played to the crowds. The hero of this hour shares the same qualities. The only sadness about the 2020 Long Walk Hurdle is there was no meaningful crowd to which Paisley Park could perform.