Malone Road too strong for Mt Leinster

Malone Road maintained his perfect record, as he easily dismissed market rival Mt Leinster in the last at Punchestown, the Mervyn Gray Construction (Pro/Am) INH Flat Race.

Successful on debut for Stuart Crawford in a point-to-point at Loughnamore in March, the son of Kalanisi subsequently changed hands for a massive 325,000 pounds.

He won with ease on his first start for Gordon Elliott and owners Cheveley Park Stud at Down Royal earlier this month, and was well-fancied to prevail again today.

Having opened at 11/10 on-course, the bay victor eventually went off the 5/6 favourite under Jamie Codd, with Mt Leinster going in the opposite direction (opened at 10/11 on-course, returned at 6/5).

The successful market leader raced in third on the inner for much of the contest, with Mt Leinster attempting to make all.

As they entered the straight, Malone Road came with his challenge, and he soon had the measure of the front-runner, stretching clear in the closing stages to score by eight and a half lengths.

Mt Leinster had to settle for second under Patrick Mullins, while Mam Trasna (66s in early shows and from 14s to 10s on-course) was another nine and a half lengths back in third.

Elliott, who was completing a quick double, said: "Jamie said he'll learn plenty as he was half-green through the race and behind the bridle.

"He's a horse that does everything easy and probably it's his first time being in around horses. I don't know about you, but I thought it was very impressive.

"In fairness to Patrick (Mullins) he went a good, honest gallop all the way. I'd say he tried to take the speed out of us but I'm really happy with the way he picked up. That'll be it now until Cheltenham."

STEWARDS REPORT

S.F. O'Keeffe, rider of Highstreet Roller trained by Thomas Gibney, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung badly left in the straight.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee