Well-backed Anthem wins for Byrnes

The three Charles Byrnes runners on the card attracted support this morning ahead of tonight's action at Roscommon and the first of those, War Anthem duly collected in the Paul Byron Shoes Maiden Hurdle.

The gelding had shown little on his previous two runs over timber but was punted this morning from 16/1 into as short as 9/4.

He proved easier to back on course and eventually went to post a 6/1 shot.

Davy Russell produced his mount to challenge three from home and he went on before the next flight.

The Zaha gelding kept on strongly in the closing stages to post a three-and-a-quarter length winning margin over 40/1 shot William B

“The man's a genius,” said Byrnes of the winning rider.

“He travelled lovely and jumped well. Brilliant. He had been schooling well.

“We'll tip away with him now.”