Sher thing scores for Stronge

Shershewill gained a deserved success with a gutsy victory in the mares maiden hurdle at Downpatrick.

Jody McGarvey settled his mount behind the leaders throughout but he had to wait on a gap when trying to launch a challenge two out.

Over Church Road had travelled well to a narrow lead as plenty held chances at the penultimate flight.

Three jumped the last together as Millie Le Bach and Shershewill came either side of the leader.

McGarvey soon hit the front on the 5/2 favourite (from 2/1) and she kept on well up the hill.

Over Church Road rallied in the closing stages but could only get to within a length at the line.

The winner had been placed four times over timber since graduating from points, including when chasing home easy winner Un Beau Roman here last month.

“That's three for me on the track this year. One at Fairyhouse and two here,” said trainer Aaron Stronge.

“That was the plan for her. There are plenty of wee mares' races over the summer so we'll keep her going. She's not hard to train thankfully.

“Her half-brother Keel Haul won a point-to-point at Toomebridge last Saturday by six lengths.”

(Additional reporting by Michael Graham)