Sam Ewing Claims Savills Chase Victory with Affordale Fury

UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, jockey Sam Ewing secured victory aboard Affordale Fury in the Savills Chase at Leopardstown on December 31, 2023. This win comes just 24 hours after Ewing’s incredible performance that included a jaw-dropping 12,662-1 hat-trick.

Ewing stepped in for suspended regular rider Donagh Meyler, marking a week of extraordinary luck for the young jockey. The race featured a competitive field, but Affordale Fury, the 7-1 winner, dominated the course, leaving high-profile competitors like Galopin Des Champs in his wake. Galopin, previously unbeaten in his last seven starts, finished a commendable third in his seasonal debut.

“It’s surreal really. My heart goes out to Donagh Meyler. It’s his ride and unfortunately he’s suspended,” Ewing stated post-race. He expressed his surprise at making the running, attributing his success to the horse’s exceptional performance. “He was travelling and jumping fence to fence. The way he’s done it, he’s improving from run to run, and I don’t see why he couldn’t be a Gold Cup horse,” he added.

The race also marked a significant achievement for veteran trainer Noel Meade, who celebrated his fourth win in the Savills Chase. Meade had expressed confidence in Affordale Fury’s abilities prior to the race, stating, “Whatever happened today was him because he cannot be any better than he is.”

The outcome places Affordale Fury as a serious contender for the upcoming Gold Cup in March, with current odds at 10-1. Meanwhile, last year’s Grand National champion, I Am Maximus, finished as the runner-up, defying his 50-1 starting price.

In contrast, the performance of Inothewayurthinkin was disappointing, as trainer Gavin Cromwell noted, “He never travelled at all, and he didn’t jump either. Everything looked an effort for him.”

The crowd at Leopardstown was also notable, with 18,337 attendees reported, reflecting a 7 percent increase compared to last year’s figures. With this latest victory, Ewing has solidified his rising status in the world of horse racing, leaving fans eager for his next appearance.

As the racing season continues, all eyes will be on Ewing and Affordale Fury as they prepare for future challenges on the track.