Rath a special winner for Griffin

There was drama in the straight in the Easter Festival 5th-7th April Maiden Hurdle at Fairyhouse, a contest that ultimately saw J P McManus land a 1,2, with 10/1 shot Rathpatrick (Mark Walsh) beating 11/4 chance Oscar Knight (Tony McCoy).

Favourite Baily Cloud was in front with every chance when falling at the second last.

It then came down to a three way battle between Ebazziyr and the McManus pair. Oscar Knight 'missed' the last, and Eoin Griffin's Rathpatrick was soon well on top. He crossed the line four and a half lengths to the good.

"That's my first winner for Mr McManus and he's out of Rua Lass which was my first winner as a public trainer, so it's great on both counts," stated Griffin.

"It took a while for the penny to drop with him. He was a bit novicey over hurdles at first and took time to relax. A step up in trip will suit him, and the softer the ground the better."

The victorious Oscar gelding had caught the eye of the stewards at Cork and Limerick. Jody McGarvey was advised to be seen to make more of an effort in the saddle at the former venue on December 7th.

B.T. O'Connell, rider of Nuff Sed trained by N Dooly, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount hung when crossing the road, ran green throughout and never got into a rhythm..

(AM & EM)