Elliott’s Eagle flies in Listowel’s opener Royal Eagle (2/1 — 11/8f) made use of a low weight with amateur rider Josh Williamson’s 7lb claim today, landing Listowel’s opening Anglo Printers Remembering John H. Kierans Mares Hurdle for trainer Gordon Elliott. The four-runner race also featured Faugheen’s niece Maughreen but while she led early-on, later faded as winner Royal Eagle, with just 10st2lb, made most of the running to score easily by 5.5 lengths from Gers Gigi . Williamson reported “we knew she would stay further as she had finished second in a Listed race over three miles so my plan was always to bounce out and make it a test. “I thought Paul (Townend, on Maughreen) would come with me for a lot longer so I was able to wind it up good and early, and she didn’t stop until the line. She went around with ears pricked and was electric to jump. “She probably wants more of a trip but is so versatile.”
