Tom Ryan seized his chance at Ballarat on Sunday, steering Enchanted Elle to victory in the $100,000 J J Houlahan Hurdle.
Regular rider Will Gordon opted for favourite Farag, leaving Ryan to partner the mare for the first time. He made the most of the opportunity, leading throughout to score a half-length win.
“She’s so tough and she’s so rapid at her hurdles,” Ryan said.
“She’s a proper hurdler; she’s so quick, she spends no time in the air, she gets about a centimetre over the top of them and there’s no waiting around with her. She’s a joy to ride.”
Enchanted Elle ($6.50) held off Sing For Peace ($3.70), with Right Now ($5.50) third, while Farag ($2.40) was pulled up before the straight.
The result capped a family double, with her brother Hit The Road Jack claiming the $50,000 Gotta Take Care Hurdle earlier.
Trainer Symon Wilde praised her consistency and hinted at a tilt at the Galleywood Hurdle at next year’s Warrnambool carnival.