Definite Plan delivers for Elliott at Cheltenham

Trainer Gordon Elliott added another Cheltenham winner to his tally for the 2021 / 2022 season when winning a valuable Class 2 Chase with Definite Plan, partnered by Jordan Gainford.

“I was kind of hoping he’d go for the amateur riders’ race yesterday under Jamie Codd but the handicappers, probably rightly so, wouldn’t let him into it," remarked Elliott.

“It just shows how competitive racing is in Ireland. He’s been second three or four times in beginners’ chases and runs his heart out every day and was kind of always finding one too good. Jordan gave him a wonderful ride today.

“He might come back for the amateur riders’ race here in November, we’ll see. He enjoys a bit of nice ground,” added the Summerhill man.

On returning to Cheltenham, Elliott added: “It’s brilliant to be back, it’s been a very lucky place for me.

"Obviously I made a mistake and I’ve apologised and I just want to look forward and keep training winners and doing what I love.

"It’s great for the owner Jim Reilly who has had a little turn and has been a little bit sick, but he’s really enjoyed watching that race and that will give him a big lift," he concluded.