Effortless for Envoi on hurdling debut

Cheltenham bumper winner Envoi Allen opened his hurdling account with the minimum of fuss in the Tayto Group Maiden Hurdle at Down Royal this afternoon.

Gordon Elliott 's charge was sent to post a 1/4 shot for his first outing over timber and it proved plain sailing for the unbeaten French-bred.

Davy Russell bounced out in front on the Cheveley Park-owned gelding and there were few worries for his supporters.

A fine leap at the second last sealed the deal in the two-mile contest and Russell briefly shook the reins after the last to ask his mount to quicken away.

The five-year-old was easing down at the line to record an impressive six-and-a-half length success. Front View stayed on to claim the runner-up spot.

Elliott said: "We think the world of him, we think he could be anything.

"He showed a lot of pace there today. He wouldn't want to be stepping up in trip too much for the time being. He's very, very good.

"He was clever, he got in close to one or two but he learned plenty there.

"I'd imagine we would probably go to Fairyhouse now for the Royal Bond."

The trainer also reported Samcro to be in good form after his win at the track yesterday.

BoyleSports make Envoi Allen 3/1 favourite from 5/1 for the Ballymore and have him at 8/1 from 14/1 for the Supreme.

(Quotes by Michael Graham)