Pilots proving consistent and versatile

Soft ground would primarily come to mind when you think of the optimum conditions for the stock of the stallion Bach. His son, Lastofthepilots proved versatile when it comes to underfoot conditions by landing the Tommy Walsh & Netwatch Maiden Hurdle at Gowran under David Casey.

The nine-year-old, equipped with cheek-pieces for the first-time here, had previously scored on heavy ground in a Limerick bumper at Christmas 2011.

On a much livelier surface today, Lastofthepilots found plenty for pressure from the fourth last hurdle.

Casey, donning the silks of successful owner/breeder, James Hale, got his mount to the front before the last before staying on well to beat Gino Trail by eight lengths.

Winning trainer Martin Fitzgerald (Killeagh, County Cork) remarked: "He's very consistent and he'll go down the handicap route now. He'll stay going during the summer and he likes that ground." (TW & EM)