Beckham scores in Down Royal opener

Mount Beckham got on top in the closing stages to claim the opening Daily Mirror Maiden Hurdle at Down Royal this afternoon.

Sean Flanagan produced his mount with a well-timed run to challenge at the final flight in the two-mile contest.

The Clare Cannon-trained gelding fought it out with Laid Back Luke on the run-in and got the better of his rival in the closing stages for a half length success.

The stewards had a look after the 8/1 winner ducked right, across his rival, near the line but the result stood. 7/2 favourite Round Tower who cut out the running, faded to finish fourth.

The winner had been third on his last outing at Ayr in January.

Cannon said afterwards: "After he was second at Leopardstown Dad said to put him away. He has been very patient.

“Two and a half miles last time was too far for him. We dropped him back and the better ground helped."

Her father Geoff Cannon, from Donaghadee, Co Down, said: "I would love to see him go chasing. He jumps for fun. He's actually better going left-handed."

Cannon has four horses in training, all owned by her father.

Sean Flanagan added: "He travelled real well and jumped really well."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)