Equestrian story by Brian Watters, Thu, 17 Nov 2005 19:04:00 GMT


Our Vic signaled a return to the form which saw him rise to the top of the heap with an emphatic performance at Paddy Power Gold Cup at Cheltenham. Trainer Martin Pipe's charge was in excellent form and this had to be seen to be believed.

“I was very anxious going to the last and I was very glad when he got to the other side,” said Pipe after the exhilarating performance. “I just told Timmy (Murphy, the jockey) to jump the first, then jump the second and the third and go from there. It was a great performance by the vets and by the whole team.” Kandjar D'Allier came in third, while Monkerhostin finished two and a half lengths behind Our Vic.

This was a remarkable performance considering that Our Vic had a serious injury last December and it was speculated that his racing career was all but over. But as the saying goes, it ain't over until the fat lady sings, and Martin Pipe had great belief in Our Vic, a belief that was vindicated today. David Johnson, Our Vic's owner was pleased with the show, "He really deserved that - he's a good horse with loads of ability.

All credit to Jonathan Lower, the lads in the yard and the boss for bringing him back in good form again. Time is a great healer and a summer at grass has done him the world of good." Trainer Martin Pipe was full of praise for the horse as well as the rider, "It was a great performance. He jumped really well and Timmy gave him a great ride, full marks to him. Well done to Jonathan for doing all the schooling and it was great to see him going out there and enjoying himself."

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