McCurtin shines on Turner

Page Turner led his rivals a merry dance in the maiden hurdle at Limerick as he made every post a winning one.

It was a first racecourse success for rider Francis McCurtin, who had previously ridden two point-to-point winners.

The 5/2 shot had to be led in at the start but things were plain sailing in the race itself.

John Joe Walsh's charge pulled clear of the field, along with Kilbaha Lion going out on the final circuit.

His companion dropped away four from home but Page Turner kept up the gallop and stayed on strongly when asked down the straight. Futuramic came through to chase home the winner but was never a serious threat and was 12-lengths adrift at the line.

"He's an excellent jumper and will make a cracking chaser," said Walsh of the winner.

"He has to wear blinkers. We'll go now for a novice hurdle."

20-year-old McCurtin hails from Fermoy and has been with Walsh for three years. He is the brother of amateur rider Ambrose.