Forge prevails in opening thriller

The Jessica Harrington-trained Forge Meadow just prevailed in a thrilling three-way finish to the opening mares maiden hurdle at Wexford. Theatre Dreams took them along in the two-miler as the two market principles Toe The Line and Forge Meadow settled in behind.

The later improved to press the leader turning for home and the pair were joined by Toe The Line, who met some trouble in running down the hill and entering the straight, going to the last.

A slight mistake by Toe The Line at the final flight handed her rivals the advantage.

Theatre Dreams battled gamely in a bid to repel the challengers but had to give way to Forge Meadow close home, who got up for a short-head victory at odds of 15/8 under Robbie Power.

6/4 favourite Toe The Line ran on to grab second on the line, just another short-head in front of Theatre Dreams, who eventually had to settle for third.

Forge Meadow was making a winning debut over hurdles having won a bumper at Fairyhouse last March and subsequently been runner-up to Augusta Kate in a Listed contest.

"It was a good performance from her as she hadn't run since Punchestown, and it was her first run over hurdles,” said Harrington.

“She jumped great, but early on she was a bit keen, and she was jumping a bit up in the air. When he needed her she jumped great. I'm really pleased because that ground is heavy and she obviously goes on it. She really was fresh and well.

"She is in the Royal Bond and she will probably end up going there. It's a nice distance and she'll end up getting a seven pound mares allowance.

“She is entitled to go there, her jumping might be a bit novicey but she'll improve. Robbie said the further she went during the race the better she got. She is a very gutsy filly."

(Quotes by Donal Murphy)