Native back to form to give Foster and Gainford double

Grangeclare Native bounced back to form to claim the Irish Thoroughbred Agency.org Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.

It was a double on the card for Denise Foster and Jordan Gainford as the Shantou gelding left behind some disappointing efforts lately.

The easy-to-back 18/1 shot bounced out in front in the extended two-mile-five contest and found plenty when needed in the closing stages. Mr Jackman came to tackle the front-runner going to the final flight but Grangeclare Native was quicker over the hurdle and held that advantage on the run-in.

9/4 favourite Favori Logique finished off well to claim the runner-up spot but could only get within two-lengths of the winner.

Gainford said: "He was running a great race the last day in Down Royal and slipped and we got unlucky as the race was over quick. He put it all together there today.

"We kept it simple as there wasn't much pace on and it worked out well."

(Quotes by Michael Graham)