Hayes doubles up with Chosen one

Goulane Chosen runner-up to Russian Bill at Naas last month, went one better in the Cashel Maiden Hurdle to complete a double on the afternoon for rider Brian Hayes at Thurles.

The 2m6f event changed complexion a couple of times in the straight, giving those who supported the 2/1 joint favourite some anxious moments before collecting.

The David McGrath-trained gelding looked set for an easy win when striding six lengths clear away from the second last as newcomer Bitsandpieces made a mistake.

However Hayes' mount didn't make life easy by idling in front as his rival got back alongside to challenge before the last.

Goulane Chosen quickly asserted again after the last and eventually had three and a half lengths to spare over the promising Bitsandpieces.

The pair stretched 20 lengths clear of Voisey's Bay in third, with the other 2/1 joint favourite Speed Demon a moderate fourth.

Hayes was earlier on the mark aboard Our Katie in the mares' novice chase.

McGrath said, "I imagine he'll have one more run before being left off and he's a chaser in the making."

Regarding the winner's idleness approaching the final flight, he said "He's a baby and sometimes they take time to learn!"

Amazingly this was Dungarvan-based McGrath's first winner under rules of this millennium as his previous success came with Irish Breeze at Tramore in September 1999.

(TW & AM)