West Balboa lands knockout blow for Skeltons.
Firstly West Balboa soared to a unchallenged victory in the Village Hotels Handicap Hurdle.
Dan Skelton’s mare was the 9-2 favourite under his brother Harry after winning the Lanzarote Hurdle when last seen.
Avoiding the mares’ division due to its notable strength and depth this season, the decision to instead target this race paid off as the seven-year-old stepped up in trip.
After travelling well the market leader led over the final flight and then pulled clear to cross the line five lengths ahead of her nearest challenger.
“She was a fresh horse today and looked fabulous while the step up to three miles was always going to be a plus,” said the winning trainer.
“I knew we had a good mare on our hands, but the mares’ hurdle was so strong it was decided this would be an intermediate year before she steps up to the top level.
“The Lanzarote was £100,000 so you can’t say she hasn’t had a fair year, but next season she will be a player in all those Graded races and it’s something we’re all looking forward to with her.”