Future looks smart Prospect on hurdling debut The Willie Mullins-trained Future Prospect justified strong support when making a winning debut over flights in the opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle at Naas. A former point-to-point and bumper winner, the Mrs John Magnier and Bronsan Racing-owned mare was sent to post a well backed 11/10f (from 2/1). Prominent throughout under Paul Townend, Future Prospect loomed up alongside leader Newbrook Diamond entering the straight. With the final flight omitted due to the low-lying sun, Future Prospect led at the bypassed hurdle before stretching clear to win by nine-and-a-half lengths. Paul Townend said: “She was keen up the straight the first time but when she met the hurdles, she gave herself a chance which she probably wasn’t doing in bumpers. “She jumped brilliantly and it allowed me to get a little breather into her. She’s tough and hardy. “When I pulled her out, she stayed going really well and I think she can improve plenty for it.” Paddy Power cut Future Prospect from 50/1 to 20/1 for the Mares Novice Hurdle. Additional reporting by Alan Magee.
