Townend rides out her 7lb claim on Klassy Kay

Jody Townend rode out her 7lb claim and continued an amazing recent run (five wins from her last eight rides) when taking the Slaney River (Ladies) Handicap Hurdle aboard KIassy Kay at Wexford.

Three of her rivals departed at the sixth flight where Woodbrook Boy fell and brought down favourite China Princess and Henry Star

The Willie Mullins-trained mare struck the front after leader Accidental Rebel hesitated at the second last, and the easy-to-back 10/1 chance gave the last plenty of air before galloping on strongly to beat Galon De Vauzelle by six and a half lengths.

Townend, recording her 25th career win, said, “She was a dream ride and settled today which she hadn't done on her last few runs. She gave me some spin and jumped like a buck. She was holding position everywhere and I got a nice run down the hill as well. She had her ears pricked going up to the line.

"That's my first winner over obstacles for Willie and that's the end of my 7lb claim now."

(DM & AM)