De Bromhead one two in Gowran opener

In-form Henry De Bromhead saddled a one two in the opening Thomastown Maiden Hurdle at Gowran when David Mullins' mount, Veronica's Napkin saw off Sir Benford Wales under Brian Hayes.

We lost the favourite Sanibel Island (tracking the leaders when fell four out) and Sizing Julie and Milestone Prince — both hampered and unseated rider — over in the back straight. Sizing Julie's rider Jonathan Burke was stood down for the rest of the day.

Plenty still held chances over the closing couple of hurdles but it was 16/1 shot Veronica's Napkin that fought off No Brainer on the run-in, and the Yeats filly had a length and a half in hand over Sir Benford Wales at the line.

"I was hoping she would improve from her run in Roscommon and on the better ground. She's a well-bred filly and is finding her feet. She could go for a novice now," said De Bromhead.

"The owners David and Anne Moon are from Jersey, and had hoses with me when I started training. In fact David bought a filly from my father about 50 years ago so the association goes back a long time.

"I was delighted with the second (Sir Benford Wales) as well. He kept on well and could go for a bumper next."

M.J. Bolger, rider of Moone Dancer trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount burst a blood vessel during this race.

C.D. Maxwell, rider of Tubeross Well trained by J.Larkin, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left throughout this race.

(AM & EM)