'We had a lot of issues early on' - Blaze A Trail turnaround continues

Wednesday: Fontwell

Blaze A Trail secured his fifth win in a row when taking the 2m2f handicap chase under Connor Brace.

The eight-year-old made all to comfortably score from En Coeur with Uncle O well beaten into third.

John Flint was delighted with his improving chaser, although the trainer conceded it had not always been a smooth journey.

He said: “We had a lot of issues with him early on, he was bleeding. The problem was him trying to do everything in one breath and the fitting of the headgear has made a massive difference to him. The hood has made him relax so he’s not using too much energy in the early part of the races and he’s seeing them out well.”

Flint, who is aiming for a return to Fontwell on November 4 with the winner, added: “He’s a happier horse and he’s really enjoying life at the moment."

Time wins

Time Flies By looked a horse full of promise when winning a bumper at Cheltenham three years ago, but he finally got off the mark over hurdles when claiming the 2m3f maiden contest.

The seven-year-old got his head in front under James Bowen for Nicky Henderson and owner JP McManus.

Results, replays and analysis

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