The Niall Houlihan-ridden Editeur Du Gite put in a bold front-running display to land the Ladbrokes Desert Orchid Handicap Chase at Kempton for the second consecutive year.
Despite being burdened with top weight of 11st 12lb, Gary Moore’s 5-1 chance battled on bravely to prevail by three lengths.
After Malystic was pulled up early on, Editeur Du Gite and Elixir De Nutz set a solid pace in the Grade Two contest.
Market leader Boothill’s bid to complete a hat-trick of victories this term ended when he fell at the fifth-last.
Up the home straight, it was the jumping of Editeur Du Gite which proved decisive, as two great leaps under Dungarvan jockey Houlihan put him in the clear.
It proved a significant win for Houlihan, who rode out his claim in the process.
"I can't really believe it" 😮💨
Niall Houlihan on his landmark win on his favourite horse, Editeur Du Gite#ITVRacing pic.twitter.com/liYFwHznxE
— ITV Racing (@itvracing) December 27, 2023
