Duckweed much the best in Kilbeggan novice

Jessica Harrington's Duckweed put in a smooth performance with Robbie Power in the plate for the first time, to land the At The Races Novice Hurdle at Kilbeggan.

The Kieran Guinness (lives only four miles from the track) owned and bred daughter of Wolfe Tone, wasn't extended to come home two and a half lengths to the good over Captain Von Trappe That fellow is owned by Gigginstown House Stud, and they also had the favourite in here, Nickname Exit eventually fourth home.

The gambled-on Ballyboker Bridge (around 10s this morning into 7/2) faded from the pace-setting role into last home.

"She deserved that after being placed. I decided to come here as it was three miles and she got all the allowances. She's not over-big so I thought it was better to come here," said Mrs Harrington.

"She jumped really well and was a good point-to-point winner. She was also second in a good point-to-point so had a bit of form.

"I'm delighted and she has improved every time I've run her. She'll go on through the summer and it will depend on what comes up whether she stays hurdling or goes over fences.

"She'd be alright over two-and-a-half also as long as they go a good gallop and she seems to go on any ground."

(GC & EM)