Corran Cross (left) tackles Bentham (right)© Photo Healy Racing
The Denise Foster-trained Corran Cross lunged late on the run-in to make a winning start over fences in the Adare Manor Opportunity Beginners Chase at Downpatrick.
The Doyen gelding won a maiden hurdle at Perth when last seen in June and connections wasted no time kicking on over the larger obstacles with the six-year-old who had cost £130,00 after winning a point-to-point on his debut.
Jordan Gainford produced the 7/2 shot with a nice run on far rail after the last and he soon pressed front-runner Bentham
Corran Cross asserted late on to record a two-length win over the well-backed 2/1 favourite in the two-mile-three contest.
Foster said: "Both horse and jockey did very well - Jordan was at his best and the horse pulled it out.
"When he got to the hill, I thought it was nearly over but, no, he stuck his head down which is what you want them to do.
"It did (the inside route paid off), it is shorter and it does help but I think it was also his attitude as well.
"He is a quality horse and jumps great and stays. The future is bright for him."
(Quotes by Michael Graham)
