Park collects back over timber Chichester Park came with a well-timed run to lead over the last and claim the first division of the William Hill Challenge Series Maiden Hurdle at Thurles. The Tony Martin-trained gelding had been third in a Listowel maiden hurdle on his track debut before finishing fourth in a Down Royal bumper in late October. He went to post a 3/1 shot today and settled in behind the leaders in the two-miler. Daniel King produced his mount to challenge after the second-last and he touched down in front over the final flight before holding the late run of Bulgaden Castle by a length. "We went back for a bumper to Down Royal the last day, but he obviously wasn't a bumper horse,” said Martin. “He looked to be running a good second that day but fizzled out. In fairness while he finished last of four then, it wasn't a bad run as he was beaten no distance. "Previously he had come home well over hurdles at Listowel and maybe hurdles in front of him is what he wants. “While he isn't in the top drawer, he is a nice horse and will go for a rated novice next. "The owners (Lyreen Syndicate) are good loyal owners of mine for years so I'm delighted for them." The 13/8 favourite Eliodam made the early running before shying and attempting to jump the road before the last hurdle with a circuit to run. He was soon headed before crashing out five from home. (Quotes by Tom Weekes)
