Rock proves too strong on hurdling debut

Jessica Harrington's mare Rock On The Moor beat the boys in the Thornton's Recycling Maiden Hurdle at Leopardstown.

The six-year-old made an impressive start to her career in a Punchestown bumper in late October, but was no match for Bordini when a distant third in Listed company at Navan a couple of weeks ago.

Sent off at 12/1 on her hurdling bow, Rock On The Moor asserted from the home turn in the hands of Robbie Power and passed the post four and a quarter lengths ahead of the rallying Velvet Maker

Harrington said: "The ground at Navan was sticky, which affected her, and I felt she was back to where I thought she'd win. She was jumping beautifully at home.

"The plan now is to target a mares Listed race at Fairyhouse in mid-January. That's made my Christmas!"