15 March 2024 , 15:36
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Harry Redknapp’s Cheltenham Festival went from ecstasy to agony on Friday.
The former Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham manager must know what it is like to concede a match to a last minute winner. He experienced the equivalent on the racecourse with The Jukebox Man in the Albert Bartlett Novices’ Hurdle.
The 77-year-old had realised a dream come true on Thursday when Shakem Up’Arry gave him his first Festival success. And for nearly all of the 3m race he looked like having a second with The Jukebox Man out in the front of the field.
There he stayed as the six-year-old cleared the last hurdle holding a clear advantage under jockey Kielan Woods.
But the nearer he got to the winning post, the more the horse started to paddle which ultimately cost him victory as 33-1 chance Stellar Story, owned by Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary put his head in front in the final stride.
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“What a run though wasn’t it?” said Redknapp. “It was a great run. We’ve got a nice horse there.
“He looked sure to win jumping the last three or four clear. But that’s racing. Yesterday we got home, today we just missed out but I’ve had a great time, haven’t I? Two fantastic runs from two lovely horses.
“Kielan rode a blinder. Made all and led to the last stride. I’m pleased with him.”
He continued: “If you’d said to me coming here I’ve have had a winner and one that well, I’d have been delighted. I’ve had a smashing couple of days. I couldn’t have asked for anymore.”