Latest News / Timeform / 28 January 2012 /

Pearl Swan swooped late to deny Grumeti in the JCB Triumph Hurdle Trial but the placings were later reversed after a coming together on the run-in...

Pearl Swan (Betfair Starting Price of [12.0]) got the better of Grumeti ([2.84]), finishing a short head in front of the Alan King-trained juvenile on just his second hurdling start in an exciting finish to the first race on Cheltenham Trials days. However, it wasn't to be.

Hollow Tree ([5.7]), who was to finish an admirable third, took the field along for much of the contest setting an even gallop with Baby Mix just in behind him and Grumeti tracking the pair, whilst Ruby Walsh was happy to anchor Pearl Swan at the rear of the field.

Jason Maguire and Hollow Tree kicked for home at the top of the hill and, for a moment the pair looked difficult to pass, before Grumeti eventually got the better of them, with Baby Mix finding less than seemed likely and quickly fading to a disappointing last having raced keenly in the early stages.

Ruby Walsh and Pearl Swan delivered a late challenge, however, staying on strongly to deny Grumeti, with the pair coming together on the run-in.

Placings were reversed in the subsequent stewards' enquiry though, with Grumeti handed the verdict. Paul Nicholls appeared pleased with Pearl Swan's effort, however, and stated the Triumph Hurdle would be next for the promising juvenile.

Pearl Swan is now second favourite for that Festival race, available to back at [9.4], with Sadler's Risk remaining at the head of the market, trading at [8.4]. Grumeti's second placed effort saw him backed in to [10.5], whilst the disappointing Baby Mix has drifted out to [20.0].

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