The Mark McNiff trained Vinniespride arrived with a late challenge to win the opening Kilbeggan Maiden Hurdle at Kilbeggan today, under Mikey Butler.

Afterwards McNiff stated “we debating all week whether to go for the handicap or maiden hurdle here but we figured he had a better chance in this. Eventhough the favourite (Fantasy King, eventual third) was second to a good horse at Cork the last day, there was nothing behind the pair and we thought it would take less winning than a handicap.

“Mikey gave him a very good ride and if he went with the favourite, he wouldn't have stayed the trip as he wouldn't be the strongest stayer. He's entered for Galway on Wednesday and may look at the apprentice handicap at Down Royal on Friday too. He ran well first time on the flat and disappointed afterwards but could be worth a chance off a light weight.”

By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Gary Carson