Modem strikes in Navan opener

Modem landed the spoils in the opener at Navan this afternoon as hotpot The Big Apple failed to shine.

Robbie Power produced 12/1 shot Modem to lead before the second last in the two mile Kells Maiden Hurdle after tracking leader Annagh Heaven throughout.

The Jessica Harrington-trained gelding galloped on strongly in the closing stages to post a length-and-a-half victory.

50/1 newcomer Last Encounter ran a stormer on his debut for Mag Mullins to chase home the winner.

The Big Apple, a well supported 8/13 favourite (6/4 in morning), failed to quicken in the straight and could only finish a well held sixth.

Modem was making his third start over timber. He had unseated on his debut at Naas before finishing a moderate fifth in a novice event at Gowran Park.

“Robbie said they went a hell of a gallop. He was unlucky first time at Naas and then at Gowran it was a bit too heavy for him,” said Harrington.

“It was better ground here and we said we'd ride him more positively. He was in front a good way out but he stayed on well.

“I'd like to go to Leopardstown if I could as you usually get better ground there. He's a light framed horse and wouldn't get through heavy. He didn't like firm ground on the Flat. He likes a bit of a dig but not heavy.

“I'm delighted for the owner Turlough Blessing who is from Castleknock. He's had some bad luck with a few horses so it's great that this one has won.” Argentino sent off a 4/1 shot for Willie Mullins, was found to be coughing after finishing down the field in 15th.

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)