'Gorgeous' Trasna Na Pairce follows-up in style Just four lined-up for the Botanica International Rated Novice Hurdle, with Trasna Na Pairce dominating from the front under Mike O'Connor. Following-up on a recent course win, the Henry de Bromhead-trained six-year-old was well-supported from 5/4 into 4/6 favouritism. Jumping well throughout, the 118-rated bay was pressed from three out, but went on again approaching the straight and was clear when ridden before the last, ultimately sauntering to a seven-length win in the colours of the Off Ramp Syndicate. The outsider of the field at 22/1, Carrigg Island filled the runner-up spot, while Grimaud and Huntsgrove were third and last respectively. "His jumping was so good and he was so quick. It was a slight concern that the trip might be too far on that ground but there didn't seem to be much pace so I had to do the donkey work," O'Connor reflected. "I heard some slaps-down-the-shoulder for the others in behind so I was fairly confident he'd win coming down the hill. "He is a gorgeous big horse, all he does is jump so could be lovely over fences." Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
