Game Present lands a gamble in Downpatrick

Henry de Bromhead's Game Present was a comfortable winner of the extended two and a quarter mile maiden hurdle in Downpatrick.

Hugh Morgan sent him into an early lead and his mount asserted after the last to come in by nine lengths.

He was backed from 20/1 down to 10/1 and beat 16/1 chance Laureate into second. Shortcross Storm was three parts of a length further back in third at 50/1.

Hugh Morgan said: "He did (relish the track) and he is coming on the whole time and his jumping is improving. There's still a bit to work on but he's getting there.

"Good and positive seemed to suit him, I was able to dictate out in front then.

"Henry (de Bromhead) said to be good and positive on him and we wanted to see how he would fare. We are learning about him the whole time. He was good there.

"That's seven winners for me now. I'm 22 and from County Kilkenny."

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Cats For Cash trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be slightly lame on the off hind post race.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Gangsters Paradise trained by Ian O'Connor, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be clinically abnormal post race.

The Stewards requested a report from Henry de Bromhead, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Game Present, placed first, as compared with its recent form. Mr. Alan Coady, Authorised Representative of Henry de Bromhead, reported that Game Present had a bad fall in Clonmel on 16 May and was subsequently run in Ballinrobe to help regain its confidence, where he found the ground and pace too fast and he was off his feet. There was an ease in today's ground conditions which along with a steadier pace and more confidence in jumping contributed to success on this occasion. Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the explanation offered.