Trainstation errs as Mr Steadfast and Paul Carberry pounce © Photo Healy Racing
A final flight mistake by favourite Trainstation opened the door in a big way for Mr Steadfast and Paul Carberry didn't need a second invite to get the 3/1 shot home for Gordon Elliott in the opening Paddy Smyth Memorial Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe.
Approaching the last it seemed a case of all over bar the shouting as Sean Flanagan struck for home aboard Trainstation, but Mr Steadfast made good leeway to cut the deficit back when the 'jolly' got the final flight wrong.
From there Mr Steadfast quickly led and stayed on well to gain the day by a length and a quarter.
Thankfully all were quick to rise after Benarty Hill fell two out bringing down Swift
"I was a bit worried about the ground (soft to heavy) coming over here," revealed Elliott.
"Paul said the further he went the better he got. He didn't jump well early. He had a bit of luck and you need that.
"Paul wasn't sure whether he would have won or not. He will be travelling and he might go to Perth next week."
"He is owned by Faye Morris who is married to John Flood of Boardsmill Stud."
A.E. Lynch, rider of Nidhaam (GB) trained by M. Flannery, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount was badly hampered.
J.J. Burke, rider of Annabell Rose trained by Peter Fahey, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount made a respiratory noise in running.
(DM & EM)
