Streets takes the opener for in form Hanlon

The opening race at the last Ballinrobe meeting of 2011, the www.ballinroberacecourse.ie Maiden Hurdle, went to the John Hanlon trained, Andrew McNamara ridden Streets Of Newyork

The son of Dalakhani was having his first start over hurdles today, having run in four bumpers and a maiden on the flat.

Having raced in the four bumpers for Charles O'Brien when in the ownership of Paul McMahon, the 4yo had his first start for Hanlon last time out at Tramore where he finished a good third to Benefit Of Porter in a maiden on the level over two miles.

He was owned on that occasion by Hanlon's partner Rachel O’Neill but has since been purchased by Mrs Antoinette Mee and this was his first start for her.

Sent off the 11/4 second favourite he took up the running approaching the straight and went clear. Despite making a slight mistake at the last he had enough in hand over his rivals as he went on to score by five lengths. Tynaghs Trooper for Ballinrobe trainer Michael Flannery ran well to finish second at 25/1 while the 11/10 favourite Ballyhoura finished seven and a half lengths back in third, fading after attempting to make all.

Winning trainer John Hanlon, who has his string in good form at present, said afterwards: "On bumper form he was entitled to be knocking on the door. He was placed three times and ran well at Tramore last time out.

"He is no star but is a nice horse and I will put him out in the field now. He has his job done for the year and has had enough racing. He will be back in the spring."