The popular midlands track hosted its first meeting of the year yesterday evening, and the packed stands witnessed a 164/1 double by veteran Cork rider Pat Verling.
Katie Fairy initiated the brace in the three mile Leinster/Petroleum Maiden Hurdle, leading before the penultimate flight and stretching clear in the straight to beat Sail Away Sailor by ten lengths. 'She was only covered by Anshan last week, and could run again at Tipperary on Thursday,' said successful trainer Michael Byrne.
Chelsea King, off the course for nearly two years with leg trouble until reappearing at Killarney earlier this month, was given a strong drive by Verling to beat Killashee Princess by three lengths in the Thorntons Recycling Centre Handicap Chase. However the stewards were not impressed with his riding, and handed out a two suspension for excessive use of the whip.
Aerleon Pete justifed good support in the Belvedere House Gardens & Park Handicap Hurdle. The Christy Roche-trained gelding got a nice run up the inner to lead off the final turn, and was eased by Charlie Swan in the closing stages for an easy six length victory over Lodge Hill.
Loughrea permit-holder Sean Mulkern saddled his first winner when Leadnomore led at the last under Ruby Walsh to beat Ballincurry Hare by two and a half lengths in the Kilbeggan Maiden Hurdle.
