Bells Grove off the mark in Ballinrobe curtain raiser Having just his third start for trainer Edward Buckley, Bells Grove made the breakthrough when easily landing the opening O'Hare's Bar Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe. Third on his hurdling debut at Listowel last time, the David L'Estrange owned gelding was sent off 4/7f under jockey Kieren Buckley. Prominent throughout, the five-year-old moved second early on the final circuit. Coming through to head leader How's Ellie on the run to the last, Bells Grove asserted on the run-in to win by six-and-a-half lengths. "His form claims were outstanding and he was the best horse in the race, so I played it safe and took no chances," said jockey Kieren Buckley. "He travelled well and just idled a bit in front. "I think two miles is a good trip for now, but he settles lovely and two and a half should be okay too, in time. "We pre-trained him before he went to John McConnell and when he went to the sales, we recommended him to David (L'Estrange) who bought him (for £30,000)." (Quotes by Mark Nunan)
