Elliott thrilled as Cheltenham big guns gallop at Leopardstown

Galvin, American Mike and Tiger Roll all enjoyed day out.

Gordon Elliott’s big Cheltenham Gold Cup hope Galvin was put through his paces by Davy Russell after racing at Leopardstown on Monday.

The eight-year-old is challenging last year’s runner-up A Plus Tard for favouritism having won the Savills Chase by a short head from the same rival at Christmas.

He was among several stable stars to enjoy a pre-Cheltenham spin with Champion Bumper hope America Mike among the squad too.

“Davy was very happy with Galvin. He said he quickened twice. Conflated was a little bit keen with Jack (Kennedy), but he said he felt very good and that should just leave them spot on,” said Elliott.

“Galvin is showing more pace this year, he looks great. It’s not going to be easy, but I’m happy with where he is.

“We haven’t made a call on Conflated yet (Ryanair or Gold Cup), I’ll have a chat with Michael and Eddie (O’Leary, owners) and see what we do but he worked nicely there.

“Queens Brook galloped well, Jamie (Codd) was very happy with Ginto and he was thrilled with American Mike.

“He worked with Fury Road and while he might not look like a machine, he’s one of the best work horses we have in the yard so he was very happy.

“Jack and Puppy (Robbie Power) were thrilled with the two horses that will run in the Champion Hurdle (Zanahiyr and Teahuppo). They’ve got a big task but they were very happy, both of them.”

American Mike leads a string of Gordon Elliott-trained horses around at Leopardstown
American Mike leads a string of Gordon Elliott-trained horses around at Leopardstown (Gary Carson)

Elliott will always reserve a special place for Tiger Roll and despite talk of imminent retirement, it seems there is still plenty of life in the dual Grand National winner, who will aim to win the Cross Country Chase yet again.

“There were no negatives, I was happy with them all, but Tiger would really catch your eye going by. He would put a smile on your face. We’ve been training him for Cheltenham he’s in great form and I couldn’t be happier with him to be honest with you,” said Elliott.

“It’s nice to get them away from home, it’s only an hour so it’s not too bad. It’s not all about the work they actually do, it’s the day away, getting their blood up and getting a final bit into them.”

Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.

Latest