Brelade (Jack Kennedy, left) races to victory from Joey Sasa (Sean Flanagan)© Photo Healy Racing
The opening I.N.H. Stallion Owners E.B.F. Maiden Hurdle at Navan was billed as being all about heavily-backed 1/3 chance Battleford He disappointed in fourth place as one of Gordon Elliott's five runners, Brelade came to the fore to land the spoils under Jack Kennedy.
Kennedy ended a frustrating spell of 'seconditis,' since returning from injury, on 11/1 hurdling first-timer Brelade.
The Presenting gelding was better than runner-up, Joey Sasa at the last, and he went on to score by a neck.
Elliott, who also saddled the promising third-placer, Midnight Escape said: "He's a nice horse and wants a bit further. We'll step him up in trip now.
"It's great for Jack as that's his first winner since he came back from injury."
(AM & EM)
