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Backing Band calls the tune under Sexton

Backing Band (nearest) beats Allbetsoff
Backing Band (nearest) beats Allbetsoff
© Photo Healy Racing

Backing Band sprang a 25/1 surprise in the two-mile maiden hurdle.

The Big Bad Bob gelding tracked the leaders before making his move under Kevin Sexton on the run to the last. He moved past Allbetsoff who made a mistake at the final flight, early on the run-in and went on to account for that rival by a length and three quarters with Kalnoo another six lengths back in third.

Winning trainer Peter Fahey said: “I'm delighted. It wasn't the strongest of races.

“He ran okay in his first run in a bumper a couple of years ago and then things went pear shaped for him.

“He'll tip away during the summer and he should be able to pick up another one or two. He's a horse that will improve for running.

“That's grand because (my wife) Ber's Dad Eamonn owns him. It's great to get a winner for him to keep him off my back!”

Quotes from Gary Carson

1st
25/1
Tote €34.20 €6.80
2nd
1.75L
10/3
€1.70
3rd
6L
12/1
€3.90
4th
8.5L
16/1
About Mark Nunan
Mark has followed racing since he was a teenager and worked for many years as a broadcaster with the Irish version of Racecall. He joined the Press Association in 2019 and is also a contributor to the Racing Post. A native of Kildare, he now lives in Sligo.