Botani (Brian Hayes, far-side) jumping with De Name Escapes Me (Denis O'Regan)© Photo Healy Racing
After his win on The West Awaits for Willie Mullins earlier, Brian Hayes doubled up at Cork in the Grade B O'Dwyers Steel Dundrum Easter Handicap Hurdle on Botani
Winning handler Colm Murphy of course took a break from the training game and this was his first winner back, the Wexford man on the score-sheet again after his last winner, Killiney Court in August 2016.
Botani clung on by a short head from Zoffanien The favourite in second was unlucky, as he ‘missed’ the last.
"She deserved that as she was unlucky in two maiden hurdles in Thurles when she was touched off. In fairness to Colm Murphy he said he'd try and win a big pot rather than lose her maiden status," said Hayes.
"I rode her when she was fifth in that handicap which has worked out well at Leopardstown in February.
"She went away on the ground, is a brilliant jumper and it is great to get black-type for her.
"I'm absolutely delighted for Colm Murphy and he has been very good and loyal to me. I rode a lot for him in the past and since he has got his license back I have done plenty of work for him.
"He has point to pointers and is training the odd few horses for the track - you don't lose it."
(TW & EM)
