Brilliant Bob bows out with super Punchestown Stayers Hurdle glory

Bob Olinger brought the curtain down on his remarkable career in brilliant fashion as the Henry de Bromhead-trained 11-year-old rallied under a fine Darragh O’Keeffe ride to secure the Grade 1 Ladbrokes Champions Stayers Hurdle on day three of the Punchestown Festival.

After it was confirmed before the race that this would be Bob’s final run, he duly obliged with a late wet sail under jockey O’Keeffe to gun down 5/4 favourite Teahupoo, who was also running in the colours of owners Robcour.

But there was still a final scare for the veteran as the Willie Mullins trained Jimmy Du Seuil came with a late flourish under Paul Townend, but he couldn’t deny Bob his 11th career win after winning four times at the Cheltenham Festival under Rachael Blackmore.

Commenting after the win, trainer Henry de Bromhead said: He’s given us so many incredible days, and he has been a brilliant horse to have. He was brilliant and Darragh (O’Keeffe) was brilliant on him.

“Davy Roche, my assistant, said he’s the best horse that’s ever come through our place. That’s a big statement and he is probably a bit biased because he adores him, he’s like his second child.

“I’m delighted for everyone at home, obviously the Achesons and Darragh, what a day he’s had. He’s a class rider and he gave him a brilliant ride. He’s got a gear and he’s just pure class; he always has been.

“It’s really special, it’s one of the top ones. For him to go out like that is what he deserves, it’s typical of him.

“We’ve had some amazing years with him. Brian rang me the other day to say that’s what he was planning to do and I just said ‘spot on, perfect’.

“This is one you savour, just a special day. You dream that they can end like that but plenty of time they don’t. To see him go out like that is just phenomenal.”