Whimsy makes the breakthrough over jumps Whimsy gained an overdue jumping success in fine style at Gowran Park this afternoon with a wide margin win in the Lord Bagenal Hotel Mares Maiden Hurdle. Oakley Brown held the 9/4 favourite up in the early stages of the two-miler before making smooth headway in the back straight. The Anthony McCann-trained mare jumped to the front over the third last and was asked to stretch away at the next. She was clear going to the final flight, recording a comprehensive 21-length success over Innatendue. The Charming Thought mare, a three-time winner on the Flat, had been placed nine times over timber previously. McCann said:- “She finally got there! I went down to the start to make sure that she started. We wanted to make the running, but it didn’t work out. “Oakley said she found another leg once she turned in. She loves that ground, so I was glad to see all the rain coming.   “I thought the handicapper was a wee bit harsh putting her up 3lb for the last day, but I suppose I’ll have to eat my words now.   “We might get something at Fairyhouse for her and if the ground is heavy, it would be ideal.” (Quotes by Alan Magee)
