Zoff makes big impression in Sligo opener

Glorious Zoff made an impressive start over hurdles for Gordon Elliott when running out a facile winner of the opener at Sligo this afternoon.

The Zoffany gelding, who had been placed once on the Flat in England from six runs, got off the mark on his jumping debut in the juvenile maiden hurdle.

Keith Donoghue produced his mount to tackle front-running favourite Crassus (even-money) at the second last.

He cruised into the lead turning for home and didn't come out of third gear as he went on to record a comprehensive 12 length success at odds of 13/2.

The winning rider said afterwards:- "He did it very well. We went a good gallop and he settled well.

"I woke him up a little bit after the second last and he came on the bridle. He couldn't have done it any easier.

"He jumped well and it's brilliant to get a winner for these owners (Deva Racing Syndicate). It's their first runner for us so it's a good start.

"I would say it's good ground, yielding in a few places."

(Quotes by Mark Nunan)