Rhythm Divine and Darragh O'Keeffe© Photo Healy Racing
Smashed into odds-on favouritism Rhythm Divine delivered in style in the Toals Dial-A-Bet on 02890 321 721 Mares Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.
Having her first start for 150 days the successful daughter of Milan held a rating of 118 coming here.
Backed from 11/10 into 4/6 in the minutes leading up to the extended two and a quarter miler, Tom Gibney’s Rhythm Divine did it nicely from the front under Darragh O’Keeffe.
Turning out quickly after her effort on the Flat at Tipperary on Friday evening, What Wonders Weave couldn’t match Rhythm Divine from before the last. Eight and a half lengths eventually split them.
"It's all grand having these opportunities, but you still have to go and do it,” said Gibney.
"In fairness she is a brilliant jumper. We thought she would appreciate the good ground. It was just whether she was fit enough really and she was, so we are delighted.
"I'm particularly happy for her owners Tom and Walter (O'Connor) - Tom and his wife Mandy are going through a tough time at the moment, so hopefully it is a tonic for Mandy.”
The County Meath trainer added: “She is as solid as a rock, you could set your watch by her. She is a very professional mare.
"We'll keep tipping away and see - we'll see what is there on the novice hurdle front or a handicap as she is well experienced. We have loads of options and she is very versatile trip-wise."
R.M. Power, rider of Jelona trained by Mrs John Harrington, reported to the Clerk of the Scales that his mount didn't jump fluently.
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Jelona, trained by Mrs John Harrington, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
(MG & EM)
