French-import Flight foils big gamble

A big plunge on Fly Rory Fly (from around 6s earlier into 6/4) was narrowly foiled by French import Holly Flight (7/1) in the WKD Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.

It was difficult to be sure as to what might transpire with plenty still on the premises at the last.

However Denis O’Regan's mount found just enough to touch off Fly Rory Fly by a short head. Even money favourite Icario finished two lengths back in third.

The successful daughter of Walk In The Park had one previous run, at Vichy in May 2015, when third behind no less a rival than Apple's Jade.

Winning trainer Alan Fleming said: "She's a nice filly, Barry (Connell, owner) bought her as a three-year-old out of France. She was third over hurdles first time out (was less than six lengths off Apple's Jade). She's a lovely filly and has shown us plenty. She's after growing since we got her and every time we were ready to run we sort of backed off.

"Denis (O'Regan) was quite pleased with her there. He said she pricked her ears in front. Hopefully she might improve again. I'm not sure where we will go, it will probably be Fairyhouse or Punchestown with a bit of luck."

A.W. Short, rider of Listinney Hill trained by Miss Suzy Barkley, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was lame behind on pulling up.

(MG & EM)