Tawseef gets that elusive hurdle success

Tawseef got his first jumps victory when just holding Island Villa at the end of two miles in the Kilcawley Construction Sligo Maiden Hurdle.

The 11/8 favourite, with Andrew McNamara in the saddle, hugged the rail and tracked Exit Seven before getting on terms at the third last. He led two out but had Island Villa (3/1) on his shoulder. He took a couple of lengths out of that rival before the last and looked to have the race at his mercy.

However, he appeared to tie-up on the run-in just as Island Villa and Denis Hogan got interested and the last 50 yards were agonising for favourite backers as Island Villa ate up the ground and caused a photo to be called to separate the pair. Tawseef had clung on by a head.

Successful trainer Colin Bowe said: “He ran in a few good maidens before and the little drop in class helped. Once he hits the front he thinks he's done enough.

“He's probably too high in the handicap and we might look for a small field novice. He's very small, 15 2, but he does handle winter ground also.”

Before today's win, Tawseef had a rating of 119 over hurdles based on four placed efforts in maiden hurdle company. His career has also included three flat victories in England and Wales.

The Stewards interviewed M.F. Mooney, rider of The Trigger (who finished fourth), concerning his use of the whip between the last hurdle and the winning post. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were satisfied that M.F. Mooney was in breach of R10(3)(g) by using his whip above shoulder height and consequently suspended him for 2 race days having taken his previous record into consideration.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson