Classic-placed Wordsworth off the mark for Pipe over hurdles

One-time Aidan O’Brien performer has impressed new connections.

Former high-quality Flat performer Wordsworth made an impressive stable debut over hurdles for new connections at Bangor.

The chestnut, who is by Galileo, was bred and owned by Coolmore previously and trained by Aidan O’Brien to runner-up finishes in the Queen’s Vase at Royal Ascot and the Grand Prix de Paris at Longchamp, plus third place in the Irish Derby.

He then changed hands at the end of his four-year-old season and was briefly campaigned by Josh Halley, picking up second-placed honours on his hurdling bow at Ballinrobe in July.

Subsequently he changed ownership and stables again and settled in with Pipe for long-term Pond House supporter Professor Caroline Tisdale.

The Nightingale House Hospice Maiden Hurdle was his first run in her silks and the horse was sent off the 10-11 favourite under Jack Tudor.

He set out to make the running and hardly saw another horse throughout, jumping with accuracy and confidence to stride to a straightforward 13-length victory.

“He did it very well, he hurdled well. He was obviously a good Flat horse and they don’t always translate it to hurdles,” said Pipe.

“He seemed to have the right attitude and I’m sure he’ll get further in time.

“He’s been very good at home, he attacks them (hurdles) and he enjoys it. We’ve been impressed with his schooling since day one.”

A return to the Flat is now on the agenda as Wordsworth holds an entry for the Cesarewitch at Newmarket on Saturday week, a race particularly favoured by Tisdale.

“He enjoyed it out in front and the plan, all being well, is that he’ll go to the Cesarewitch next Saturday,” Pipe said.

Of Tisdale he added: “She’s a very loyal owner and we’ve had some fantastic days, hopefully there are more to come.

“One of her favourite races is the Cesarewitch and that was one of the reasons for buying the horse.”

Follow us on Twitter racing365dotcom and like our Facebook page.

Latest