Easy to back Blixt just holds on

The easy to back Blixt just held off the late surge of Small World in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Opportunity Handicap Hurdle.

The winning daughter of Yeats, who is a half-sister to the great Hurricane Fly, was successful on her penultimate start at Downpatrick, before disappointing on her most recent effort which was again at the northern venue.

As short as 15/2 in early shows, the five-year-old bay opened on-course at 14s before going off a 16/1 chance in the colours of the Blue Blood Racing Club.

Settled in mid-division by Niall Kelly, the Willie Mullins trained victor took closer order from four out, but lost her place after the next.

She was ridden to challenge on the inner from the second last, and got to the front after the final flight, keeping on well to just hold on by a nose.

The 9/4 favourite Small World was the one just denied, while 20/1 chance Fleurys Fort completed the placings another length back in third.

Kelly said afterwards: "That was badly wanted and it's great to get a winner for Willie.

"The step up to three miles helped and she settled better. She is learning with her racing, jumped super and is tough and game."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards received a report from Mr. Liam Walsh , Turf Club Clerk of the Scales, regarding the fact that J.J. Slevin , rider of Theydon Park (GB) , weighed in at 1.2 lbs overweight. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned, who stated that he suffered a fall in the fourth race and after weighing out for this race his hand became sore. His hand was then bandaged and he took a drink of water with painkillers. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards were satisfied that J.J. Slevin was in breach of Rule 231 and they therefore cautioned him regarding his future responsibilities in this regard.

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes