The red-hot run of northern jumps jockey Shaun Phelan continued when he guided accomplished hurdler Kipkeino to a comfortable victory at Wanganui.

Phelan, who took out the Grand National Steeplechase on Upper Cut last weekend, was seen at his patient best as he lobbed along towards the rear of the field on Kipkeino throughout much of the race. With testing conditions underfoot, Phelan conserved plenty of energy on the ten-year-old gelding before making a sweeping run to challenge on the point of the home turn.

Relishing the deep footing Kipkeino took over as he liked and cleared the two home straight fences in efficient fashion before dashing away to record a big victory from a gallant Thatz David, who rallied bravely after drifting off the pace with 1000 metres to run.

Phelan was pleased with the effort of the Hawkes Bay Hurdle winner as he looks forward to a potential start in the Great Northern Hurdles at Ellerslie next month.

“He was perfectly placed at the weight today and just out-stayed them,” he admitted after the race.

“That’s probably the best field he could have faced down the line here so hopefully he keeps going forward and can make the step up to the Northern.”

Trainer Lucy de Latour confirmed the Great Northern Hurdles was foremost in her mind as she waited for a post-race report from Phelan.

“The loose track helped him today,” she said.

“He’s going really well and looked quite happy out there.

“We will see how he pulls up and then think about the Northern.”