Majestic Force cut in price for Cheltenham's mares' novice

Impressive point-to-point winner Majestic Force (7/2) scored on hurdling debut today, landing Punchestown's I.N.H. Stallion Owners EBF Maiden Hurdle for trainer Henry De Bromhead and jockey Rachael Blackmore.

Bought for £120,000 having easily won a Lingstown point-to-point for Robert Tector in December, the big daughter of Workforce today reappeared for new connections.

Majestic Force appeared at full tilt after the second-last and while also forced three-wide as market rival Dr Eggman (2/5f) snuck up the inside rounding the final turn, the winner pinged the last and won by 4.5 lengths.

De Bromhead's representative Robbie Power said “she was getting plenty of weight off the second but for her first run over hurdles that was very good. She was impressive when she won her point-to-point and we're delighted to get a good winner for Duncan (Angove, owner).

“Rachael thought she'd be better in a better race, going a stride quicker as they went very steady early on. She's a big scopey filly and when they went on a gear quicker she jumped an awful lot better. That was an ideal start and she stayed really well.

“She had a good blow when she came back in and hopefully she'll step forward from that. We might have a look at some of the spring targets but chasing is going to be her game next winter.”

Majestic Force holds an entry a Cheltenham festival entry in the mares' novice hurdle next month, with bookmakers Paddy Power cutting her price from 50/1 to 20s, for the Grade 2 race.

Quotes from Gary Carson