3 minute read
The victory of Impaire Et Passe in Saturday’s Guinness 00 Faugheen Novice Chase was part of a significant Saturday for both trainer Willie Mullins and jockey Daryl Jacob.
It was the first Grade 1 success of the Festive period for the trainer – with Galopin Des Champs subsequently able to make it an across-the-card Grade 1 double at Leopardstown – and a poignant moment for Jacob to announce his retirement from race-riding.
It was an easy assignment for Impaire Et Passe, who had made a successful chasing debut in the 'double green' silks of Munir and Suede at Fairyhouse in late November. The six-year-old put in another good round of jumping, in contention through the first half of the race before hitting the front approaching the last. He pulled four lengths clear of Joseph O'Brien's Jordans at the line, with Search For Glory back in third.
Although Jacob did not initially announce his retirement, he subsequently spoke to the Sporting Life, saying: "It's the right decision at the right time. I've worked very hard to get back from injury this season and I knew I had some good opportunities this Christmas including in the Grade 1.
"To ride Impaire Et Passe there to win the Grade 1, it will be very difficult to beat that now and finishing at Leopardstown, where I won my first Grade 1, feels right.
"I've always wanted to retire on my terms, riding good horses, and Impaire Et Passe has been one of our best horses. He's very special to me.
"It's been a tough road and hard work. It was a real battle at Oaksey House to get fit for this festive period and the shoulder feels good, but I can't better this, riding a Grade 1 for Simon and Isaac.
"I have to thank my family, Simon, Isaac and Anthony Bromley and all of the medics that have looked after me. A special mention too to Robert and Sally Alner, the boss has made every career decision I ever made including to ride for Simon and Isaac.
"They were very important people that have been with me throughout my career.
"It has been wonderful. I've ridden a Grand National winner, now 31 Grade 1 winners, I've ridden over 1000 winners.
"I've been very lucky. I've battled with my weight over the years, I'm not getting any younger, I've had to work hard with my weight and it doesn't get any easier.
"I'm looking forward to new opportunities, being part of the Double Green team going forward – I'll still be an integral part of the team."
