It was a strong start for the Irish on the opening day of the 2024 Cheltenham Festival, with Rachael Blackmore leading the Henry de Bromhead trained Slade Steel to victory in the Supreme Novices' this afternoon.
There were some big Irish favourites in the race, with some late money on Slade Steel meaning it went off not far behind Willie Mullins' Tullyhill in the betting.
That horse led the field for the vast majority of the race, although it was unable to hold off the challenge of Blackmore in the end.
💪 Slade Steel delivers in the G1 Sky Bet Supreme Novices' Hurdle@HenrydeBromhead | @rachaelblackmor | @CheltenhamRaces pic.twitter.com/sgOimJrhCb
— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 12, 2024
While Rachael Blackmore won the race, another Irish jockey also caught the eye with their performance.
'World's tallest jockey' impressed on Cheltenham debut
Thomas Costello finished fourth onboard 16/1 shot Asian Master, a fine result for the Willie Mullins trained horse. The horse is actually owned by Costello's parents, meaning this finish was all the more special to mark the rider's festival debut.
Thomas Costello is clearly a very talented jockey, although he certainly breaks the mould in the sport when it comes to his frame. The 22-year old stands at an impressive 6ft 4ins, making him the tallest jockey on the circuit at the minute.
In a sport more regularly populated by smaller riders, he definitely stands out from the pack.
Speaking to Racing TV after the Supreme Novices', the Clare man admitted that he was thrilled with Asian Master's performance on the day.
🗣️ "When we bought him to Willie's, we thought he would be running in the Foxhunters'"
'Hard to believe' the performance of Supreme fourth Asian Master according to his 6ft 4 jockey Thomas Costello who reflects on a special thrill! Great interview 👇🏻 pic.twitter.com/mQW6U8LswS— Racing TV (@RacingTV) March 12, 2024
It was unbelievable. I said to David Jennings during the week, he finished in the first six I would be delighted. He got into the parade ring again, which is just unbelievable for everyone.
We never thought when we brought him to Willie's first that he would be a hunter chaser, to go for the Foxhunter on the Friday. It's hard to believe that he's here now running the two miles and finishing fourth. There was loads of good horses behind him...
The other thing is it's a credit to Man and Dad to hold onto him. He finished second to Fact or File and Fact or File was what I call a 'talking horse' at the time.
It's brilliant for everyone. It's great when it pays off for them as well.
A great day for all involved with the horse.
Thomas Costello is certainly a name to keep an eye out for. You definitely won't miss him if he's out there on the course.
SEE ALSO: Cheltenham Results - All The Winners And Reaction From Day 1 Of The Festival
