Saltonstall recorded his ninth career victory when landing the Ann Hartnett Celebration Handicap at the Leopardstown last Saturday under a perfectly timed ride from stable apprentice Adam Caffrey.
The Pivotal gelding was given his customary hold-up ride from the outset and he responded immediately when Adam asked him to close on the leaders where he powered him into final furlong to stay on strongly to pick off his opposition to win by a three quarters of a length from Soilse.
Speaking afterwards, Ado said, “I don’t know what to say about this fella, he’s just a legend. Adam was very good on him today, he was stone last when he jumped. They went a good gallop and it suited him.
He just grows another leg on this ground. He’s just a brilliant horse to have, he’s so popular and he never runs a bad race.
I’m going to Newmarket this week, but I don’t know what money I’d need to find a horse like him.
It’s great for the lads, we’ll rock on again next year and probably go back for a Lincoln and do the same thing again.
He still has his old spark, especially on soft ground”.