Punchestown Festival: Apple’s Jade a Champion gem

David Metcalf | April 29, 2016

Apple’s Jade can secure top juvenile crown

Apple’s Jade put in an astonishing performance when winning last time out and looks a worthy odds-on favourite to follow-up in the Grade 1 Aes Champion Four Year Old Hurdle at the Punchestown Festival (16.25).

The Willie Mullins trained filly won her first two starts over obstacles in the style of an above average performer, and showed a willing attitude in the second of those to dig deep and beat Jer’s Girl by a head in the Grade 2 Knight Frank Juvenile Hurdle at Leopardstown.

Jer’s Girl has since gone on to bolt-up by 13 lengths in a Grade 1 contest at Fairyhouse to give the form a solid look, and Apple’s Jade went on to finish a fine second to Ivanovich Gorbatov in the Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

Breathtaking display at Aintree

The Gigginstown House Stud owned daughter of Jeremy then got revenge on Ivanovich Gorbatov in no uncertain terms when landing the Grade 1 Anniversary 4-Y-O Juvenile Hurdle at Aintree earlier in the month.

Apple’s Jade travelled like a dream throughout and after taking up the running three from home shot clear without being asked a serious question to win easing down by 41 lengths in a quick time.

It was a breathtaking display, and one of the most impressive performances I have ever seen by a juvenile.