Step up to three miles works for Chiricahua

Smart Flat horse Chiricahua got off the mark over jumps in the 3-mile maiden hurdle.

Sent off 18/5, the biggest price he's been in six starts over flights, he was patiently handled by Sean O'Keeffe who brought him through to lead two out. The Camelot gelding stayed on well to beat Sammy Smart by four lengths with Belles Benefit a further two and three quarter lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Paul Nolan remarked: "Tthat wasn't before time. He has gone very behind-the-bridle and I thought early-on today we were in bother. He just looks slow even at three miles and that's the way it is. That's his trip and I don't think he'll be moved much off 120 so might be able to run well in a handicap or in a winners' of one.

"He has been on the go for the winter and if the ground stays safe, he might stay going."

Quotes from Tom Weekes