McConnell doubles up with Wild Shot

The easy-to-back Wild Shot brought up a double for John McConnell at Downpatrick.

He went off 11/4 from 6/4 and closed on the inner approaching the final flight of this extended 2m2f maiden hurdle.

He got on terms at the last and soon led before going on by two and three quarter lengths for Shane Fitzgerald. Wee Willie Nail 9/4 joint favourite, finished second and was the same distance in front of Aghinagh (100/1).

McConnell said: "He was unlucky in Cheltenham, he got blocked just at the wrong time.

"He's a funny horse - this is the most under-trained horse in my yard but that's the way to train him, If you have him 101% he is too fit. He's a very petite little horse. He needs to be 85% or 90% fit and he will do his best.

"It was great to get the win under his belt and we'll have a bit of fun with him over the summer.

"I don't know why there is racing anywhere else, there should be just racing in Downpatrick! We get lucky here so I'll be coming back."

McConnell also took the opener with Ottoman Style