The Folkes Choice races away from the last as God's County (grey) stumbles at it© Photo Healy Racing
The opening race at Limerick this afternoon, the Bet On-Course With Tote Maiden Hurdle, went to 6/4 favourite, The Folkes Choice who made all to score under Ruby Walsh for trainer Henry De Bromhead.
The 6yo daughter of King's Theatre had run well on her last two starts and finished third last time out at Killarney behind Dara Tango and Captain Ocana.
The David Young owned winner made all the running and fended off the challenges of both God’s County and newcomer Lord Of Isenay in the straight before going on to win by half a length at the line.
The first reserve Lord Of Isenay ran well to take second under Robbie Power for Jim Dreaper at 16/1 while God’s County was third for Davy Russell and Tony Martin a further half a length back at 5/2.
Henry De Bromhead wasn't present for the win but Eddie Ryan representing the trainer said afterwards: "Whatever she does over hurdles will be a bonus as she will be a better chaser.
"Hopefully we will get some good weather as I think she is a summer mare and will be better on better ground."
(On-course reporting by Alan Magee)
