Pigeon Forge took a big step forward on her second start over hurdles to take the runner-up spot on Sunday 5th April.
Despite there being only five runners, it was a competitive contest in which none could be safely dismissed. Pigeon Forge went off a general 5/1 chance. She settled nicely just behind the leading pair, with Ben Jones delivering a patient ride that allowed her to find a good rhythm, jumping slickly and accurately throughout.The leaders, along with another rival tracking them, set a strong pace, and Pigeon Forge looked outpaced, becoming detached by around ten lengths. However, she continued to jump well and, turning for home, began to close as the early exertions took their toll on those up front.Producing a strong late effort, she jumped the final two flights neatly and stayed on gamely up the hill to take second in impressive fashion, finishing behind the 4/9 favourite.
After the race, jockey Ben Jones gave us his verdict on the performance:
“She was slow into stride but jumped the first two nicely. I was having to hold her hand and nurse her into the race, slowly warming her up. Down the hill she grabbed the bridle, she winged three out really nicely and she got a bit of a roll on and I thought here we go. Turning in I could see two of them coming back to us and I thought we’ll definitely get second. She was brilliant, she could probably win a race like this but if she runs in another and wasn’t to win she’d be well-handicapped. We’ll have some fun with her.”
Trainer Emma Lavelle reported the following day:
“Pigeon Forge is very happy with herself after yesterday’s performance. She has a little nick behind but nothing to worry about. She jumped beautifully and ran a really nice race, we know she wants further so this was really promising and we have lots to look forward to.”
This was an excellent effort from our mare and one that suggests a bright future ahead, with every indication she can win races over both hurdles and fences. Her owners enjoyed a wonderful day in the sunshine at Plumpton, rounding it off with a celebratory drink with Emma .There is certainly plenty to look forward to with this promising mare.
Shares are still available in Pigeon Forge for just £50 per share HERE.
