Rio gets off the mark under Orr

Rio Lobo just got the better of Shaketry in the August Racing Festival 16th-19th Maiden Hurdle.

The Henry de Bromhead trained gelding performed with credit in good quality maidens during the winter, and was sent off the 15/8 favourite this evening.

Settled in mid-division by Conor Orr, the son of Milan took closer order after three out and disputed the lead from the next.

He was ridden and edged to the front on the run-in, keeping on well from there to get the better of Shaketry by a neck.

The runner-up was returned at 5/1 (from 6s), while 50/1 outsider Love The Well was another length and three parts back in third.

Gearóid O'Loughlin, racing manager for owner Chris Jones, said: "He fell on his first start and was injured. He doesn't handle heavy ground and we'll probably go to Galway with him.

"I'm delighted for Conor, that's his second winner since coming home and he is working for us. He is great value for his claim.

"We pre-train the horses and Conor gets to know them. He will go to Galway and will probably go chasing in the autumn."

The winning rider was previously based in the UK with Evan Williams, and had eleven winners there. He had his first win since returning home on One In All In at Down Royal late last month.