Trickey Trix and Conor Maxwell (left) jump the last ahead of Thatbeatsbanagher© Photo Healy Racing
Trickey Trix sprang a 20/1 surprise when making all under Conor Maxwell in the Ladbrokes Handicap Hurdle.
Living up to her name somewhat when reluctant to jump off on her previous two starts, she was on her best behaviour here and responded willingly in the home straight to see off the persistent challenge of Thatbeatsbanagher (7/2) by two and a half lengths, with Mary Of De Sorrows (10/1) nearest at the finish in third. Robin Deuz Pois having got in as a reserve, was sent off the 9/5 favourite and finished fourth.
A daughter of Mahler, the winner had landed a point-to-point at Durrow last year and had been placed twice from ten previous starts over hurdles.
Winning trainer Dermot McLoughlin said: "For some unknown reason the last twice she was a bit hesitant at jumping off.
“We just said we would change tactics today and maybe get her away in front. Conor (Maxwell) said she kept going and enjoyed herself in front.
“He said she kept finding and finding for him — I’ll give her that, she’s game.
“I was just disappointed with her a couple of times, maybe she was in season.
“I’m delighted she is off the mark for her owner (Patrick Macken)who has a couple of horses with us.
“We’ll see what the handicapper does, but we’ll keep her going for another while once the conditions suit.
“She won a point-to-point and she needs another run over fences to be handicapped, so we have choices.”
Additional reporting by Michael Graham
