Motherway's charge makes winning debut over hurdles

I.N.H. Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle (Div I) went to 16/1 chance Conquredalofeurope who outstayed the Evens favourite Ennemi Public on the short, but steep, run from the back of the last.

Darragh O’Keeffe’s mount was denied a clear run before the second last as he tried to challenge between horses, and he looked held in third place going to the last, but his stamina came into play thereafter as the short run-in was much more of a test on the prevailing heavy ground.

Half a length was the winning margin at the post, with Coolbawn Lad (5/1) another two and a half lengths back in third place having had every chance.

The winner cost E52,000 at the 2018 Goffs Land Rover Sale and is a half-brother to three winners.

Winning trainer James Motherway, based near Cloyne, Co.Cork, said: “He is a lovely big horse who ran in two point-to-points last year and was big and backward.

"I told Darragh to pop in behind the leaders and keep filling him and ride him into the bridle. I fitted him with cheek-pieces today because he can be lazy at home and I thought fitness would catch him out today on his first run of the season.

"Darragh said to me that going to the last he thought he was always going to get there - I wasn't as confident!

"Chasing is his game, he is a grand jumper and a genuine horse who has improved from last year.

"He wouldn't light you up at home and just does what he has to do but he is a nice one to have and it's great for Brian (Acheson, owner) and the team."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes