Le Martalin in a different league

Le Martalin doubtless pleased his new owners, Gigginstown House Stud, when proving in a different league to his opponents in the opening Mervue Maiden Hurdle at Galway.

Winner of a Listowel bumper for Jane and Mark Dwyer, Le Martalin has remained with Noel Meade after the change of ownership, and under Sean Flanagan here he was a 4/5 shot to make a winning hurdles debut.

The Martaline chestnut (not completely without flaw in the jumping department) took over from Ceide Fields from the second last hurdle and he had seventeen lengths in hand over Chasing Yesterday at the line. Bobo Mac had place claims when falling at the last.

"We thought he'd win. He jumps well and does everything right at home. He is not a fellow we work too often because he is fairly keen," revealed Meade.

"Sean said when he saw the first hurdle he just went vump up between them. He thought he might be better off settling in front.

"He took more out of himself pulling than he did racing. He is a nice horse and is a lovely sized horse. He is 16.3hh, and has great scope.

"I see him being a great chaser in time. Sean said he'd like it softer than today. I presume we will go for a novice with him now somewhere.

"Nina (Carberry) said he should stay at two miles, I didn't talk to Sean about it yet, but I'd imagine he'll stay at two miles and we will see where he takes us."

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Presenting Percy (GB), trained by Patrick G.Kelly, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.

(DM & EM)