Charm takes Limerick opener in style

Archies Charm made an impressive start over timber when taking the opening maiden hurdle at Limerick this afternoon.

Brian Hamilton 's charge had run in three bumpers, finishing fourth on his most recent outing at Cork last month.

He went to post an easy-to-back 13/2 shot in this two-mile-three contest restricted to horses that hadn't been placed in three runs.

Hugh Morgan 's mount travelled well to hit the front two from home and kicked clear before the last.

The Shantou gelding went on to post an easy 11-length success over Elusive Star who edged the runner-up spot by a nose from Half Shot

"He did it nicely and we always thought he was a right nice horse,” said Hamilton.

"He was getting tapped for toe in his bumpers but is such a slick jumper and the conditions of the race were ideal for him. His jumping kept him in the race and he never had to get after him too much. 

"I was concerned about the ground but he seemed to get through it ok. It wasn't a fantastic race but he is a nice horse to go forward with although he is more a spring type on better ground so I won't be too hard on him at the minute.

"Hugh got a spare ride for me at Down Royal recently and I liked the way he rode then and he was the obvious go-to man today. That's his first winner for me and he is a young fellow coming on."

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)