Formal Order upstages market principals

Formal Order upstaged the market principals in the O'Brien Event Catering Maiden Hurdle, scoring on what was his first try over flights.

Previously trained by Johnny Murtagh and placed four times on the level, the son of Iffraaj changed hands for E17,000 at Goffs last October.

Well-beaten on his first two starts for Matthew Smith, the bay gelding was sent off a 22/1 chance this afternoon in the colours of the M&S Partnership.

Having jumped well throughout in third under Keith Donoghue, he was switched off the rail and came with his challenge approaching the last.

Ridden on the run-in, he gradually wore down Mr Jackman (6/5jfav), getting up in the dying strides to prevail by a head.

Mr Jackman, who was bidding for a third straight success, had to settle for second under Jack Kennedy for Gordon Elliott, while Gaspard Du Seuil (6/5jfav) was another length and a three quarters back in third.

Smith, speaking by phone, said afterwards: "He always worked well at home but his last two runs were quite disappointing. We put ear plugs on him the last day but he didn't travel at all. He'll probably go for a winners' race."

Donoghue added: "He jumped brilliant and would have been an unlucky loser as I got a bit boxed in when we quickened around the bend. He showed a good turn of foot."

STEWARDS REPORTS

The Stewards reviewed an incident in the closing stages of this race involving Mr. Jackman, ridden by J. W. Kennedy and Formal Order, ridden by K. M. Donoghue were it appeared that Mr. Jackman drifted into Formal Order taking him off a true line. Having viewed the recording and considered the matter the Stewards decided that no further action was warranted.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee