Ballybrowney Jack and J J Slevin© Photo Healy Racing
After his couple of winners up at Navan, Joseph O'Brien maintained the momentum at Wexford as Ballybrowney Jack took the opening Download New BoyleSport App Maiden Hurdle.
Under O'Brien's cousin J J Slevin, Ballybrowney Jack (7/2) was good over the closing couple of hurdles when he needed to be, as he dished out a four and a quarter length beating to Court Tycoon (20/1). All For Nothing (50/1) and Rockview Emperor (100/1) filled the third and fourth positions as the likes of Pass Hymn (7/4 favourite, 7th home) and Arahecan (4/1, pulled up) failed to come up to expectations.
"He had a very good run at Clonmel last year, which was his first run over hurdles. The last day in Kilbeggan the track might have been a bit quick for him, he didn't handle it as well. He enjoyed it around here today, and won nicely," reported Slevin.
"I think he stays well and he is probably going to get further in time, so it was always the plan to race prominently."
The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Veterinary Officer examined Arahecan, trained by Henry de Bromhead, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal.
A.E. Lynch, rider of Arahecan trained by Henry de Bromhead, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost its action and was pulled up thereafter.
D.E. Mullins, rider of Pass Hymn (GB), trained by Garrett James Power, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount ran free throughout.
(DM & EM)
