West Coast Time and JJ Slevin pictured on their way to victory© Photo Healy Racing
West Coast Time made it two from two for favourite backers at Gowran, as he took the Racing Again Tomorrow Maiden Hurdle on his debut over flights.
The Joseph O'Brien trained five-year-old won a bumper on debut at Cork in January, and was last seen finishing third on the level at Listowel earlier this month.
Having opened at 9/4 on-course, the son of Westerner eventually went off the 15/8 favourite with JJ Slevin in the saddle.
Settled in second, the bay victor jumped the first slowly, but warmed to his task as the race progressed.
He improved to lead after four out, and kept on well under pressure from before the last, going on to prevail by three and a quarter lengths in the colours of Michael Tabor. Beyond The Law (5/1) ran well to finish second under Robbie Power for Mouse Morris, while Laverteen (11/2 to 7/2) was another three lengths away in third with Davy Russell in the saddle for Noel Meade. The Granson ran an eye-catching race to finish fourth, while the 9/4 second favourite Iolani was a well-beaten sixth.
"He was quite leery and was very green at his hurdles but he's a nice horse and had good bumper form," said O'Brien.
"He had a good look at the first and he even had a good look at the second last. No harm done though.
"I was watching it from the stands so it was hard to see but he jumped the fourth last and kind of ended up in front. For his first run over hurdles he was left in front with plenty of time.
"Still and all it was lovely. He should stay further as well.
"We'll think about stepping up in trip but he'd definitely be better when we can drop him in a bit more. We'll look for a novice and I don't think we need to go aiming too high yet."
STEWARDS REPORT
The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Iolani (GER), trained by W.P. Mullins, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
Additional reporting by Gary Carson
