Russell does "turn up" and rides a winner too

Davy Russell returned to domestic fare after his National heroics yesterday to win the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Mares Maiden Hurdle at Tramore on Decision Time (13/8 favourite).

The champion jockey elect had to work to keep Tiger Roll in front in the Aintree spectacular yesterday and it was something similar here as he had to fully ride out Decision Time to see off fellow local hope Beliou Le Fume (20/1).

Three parts of a length split them at the line.

Winning trainer John Kiely said: "I'm delighted to have a winner for such a decent family (owners, the Gleesons), they have always been great supporters of me and of Tramore.

"It's a thrill to be able to give Davy his first winner after yesterday. I doubted that he would turn up today because he was dragged here and there and everywhere! 

"He gave Tiger Roll a great ride. As did Derek (O'Connor) on Balnaslow. I thought his approach to the Canal Turn was brilliant. It's lovely to witness sport like this.

"She (Decision Time) is a nice mare, she would probably like better ground, but she is after winning over hurdles now which is nice." 

A.E. Lynch, rider of Juniors Angel trained by Peter Croke, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount hung left going to the second last.

(DM & EM)