Heartbreak City (left) and Jack Kennedy tackle Mai Fitzs Jack © Photo Healy Racing
Heartbreak City had to work hard to land the odds in the first division of the two-mile maiden hurdle at Tipperary.
The 4/7 shot moved smoothly to take closer order turning for home but had to be shoved along two from home by Jack Kennedy to chase front-runner Mai Fitzs Jack
The leader was untidy at the last which let Heartbreak City get closer and Tony Martin's charge edged ahead in the closing stages.
Only a head separated the pair at the line as Mai Fitzs Jack battled back close home.
The winner was returning to jumps having run off a mark of 103 on the level in the Chester Cup last time. He had previously been an impressive winner at Cork.
"He's had his issues over the years and I won't be in any rush with him. He's in over the next few days - he's not qualified tomorrow, but we'll get him home and see how he is,” said Martin.
"He was previously owned by George Swan who unfortunately passed away from cancer last year and his boys organised pals of his for the syndicate (Here For The Craic Partnership)."
(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)
