3 minute read

Special Tiara bounced back to form to win the 32Red Desert Orchid Chase for a second time at Kempton.

Successful in 2014, Henry de Bromhead's raider had found the soft going against him at Cheltenham last month but conditions were more to his liking this time.

The 8-11 shot made all the running in the hands of Noel Fehily, who was completing a four-timer from the first four races on the card, but there was early drama when Sire De Grugy unseated Jamie Moore at the second fence.

That left just three in the race and while Savello was always struggling in rear, Sir Valentino put in a strong bid in the straight.

However, he was not foot-perfect at the last and that just gave Special Tiara the edge as he landed the spoils by half a length.

Fehily said: "It's been a fantastic day. I've ridden some lovely horses and I'm very lucky.

"I've had some great days on this fella. I've been placed in Champion Chases on him, I've won a Celebration Chase on him. He's been a very good horse to me.

"He's older now and is finishing his races off a lot better. He picked up well."

Owner Sally Rowley-Williams is enjoying her visits to the UK from America. She said: "I moved to Florida in August and have been back here three times since.

"Last time I was here at Kempton he won, and I'm hoping he will be good for at least another season."