Balakani put the brakes on and lost ground at the start but he still ultimately easily landed the spoils in the SeamusWeldon.com Maiden Hurdle at Killarney. Iusetaluvheronce shaped well up the straight but he was readily brushed aside from after the second last by the Mouse Morris-trained and Andrew Ring-ridden Balakani (9/1).

The French-bred point-to-point graduate, built on his Cork fifth placing from 113 days back to cross the line in this two mile one furlong event by seven and a half lengths from Iusetaluvheronce.

"That was very pleasing. He was a bit green at the start but it's not badness and he does it (his racing) when it counts," said Morris.

"My horses were all sick when he point to pointed last season and I'll try one winners' race with him but I'd like to go jumping (fences) with him soon. He's French bred and does jump but wants it softer than that and today's ground would just be quick enough for him."

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Cymro trained by Joseph Patrick O'Brien, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be lame post race.

(TW & EM)