Irish Grand National hero Davids Lad continued where he left off last season with a convincing victory on his seasonal debut in the four-runner Roscommon Chase over two miles yesterday.
Partnered by Timmy Murphy, stable jockey to Paul Nicholls in Somerset, the 6/4 chance quickened up nicely after the last to sweep past Feathered Leader for a five length victory, after which the winning rider said, ' He has improved a little and he felt a bit stronger today. His jumping was fantastic and the good gallop helped.'
Winning trainer Tony Martin was understandably pleased,'He won over hurdles at two miles and he's plenty fast enough but he's a horse who needs a race or two. On official ratings he was entitled to win that race but he's probably not good enough for the big races like the King George or the Ericsson. He may run at Punchestown in another 2m conditions race on Thursday week.'
Turf Club handicapper Noel O'Brien, who has decided to leave the 7yo on his present mark of 147, said,' He showed a nice turn of foot and was impressive over that trip.'
Tadhg O'Shea edged 3 clear at the head of the apprentice title race when he recorded a smooth success on Michael Halford's Starlight Venture in the 1st division of the 10f maiden. 'I thought she was a bit unlucky at Listowel but getting her toe in on the ground today helped her,' said Michael Halford, who is enjoyed his best campaign with 44 winners so far this term
Jim Bolger's Marionnaud and Kevin Manning made it fourth time lucky in the EBF Fillies Maiden while Sadima justified strong market support when taking the 2nd div of the 10f maiden for John Oxx and Niall McCullagh.
The second day of the Ireland/Australia Jockeys' challenge series left the home side in a very strong position heading to Fairyhouse today after the opening 2m handicap hurdle which went to Dick Donohoe's Princess Pearl and Jimmy Mansell.
Holding a five-point lead after Thurles last Thursday, the Irish now hold a commanding 12-point lead at 17-5 over the visitors.
Just four went to post for the Kilbegnet EBF Novice Chase over two miles and here Arthur Moore's Masalarian, who was travelling slightly the better for Conor O'Dwyer at the time, was left clear after the last. Michael Mor, who was racing virtually alongside, jumped left into the eventual winner and unseated rider Paul Carberry.
