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Alan Magee

Alan Magee

First makes a big Impression

Sun 8th Jul 2012, 16:17

Larry Mulvany, son of trainer Michael, leads in First ImpressionsLarry Mulvany, son of trainer Michael, leads in First Impressions
© Photo Healy Racing

First Impressions caused a 20/1 shock when taking the Hermitage Green Play Live 26th July Handicap Hurdle in convincing fashion under John Cullen at Limerick.

The six-year-old gelding was sent into a decisive lead early in the home straight, and the son of Beneficial kept up the gallop to beat the staying on Zaralabad (8/1) by three and a half lengths. In A Nutshell (10/1) was a further length and three quarters back in third, while Alf Wright (11/1) completed the placings in this 18 runner event.

It was somewhat surprising that the winner was let off at such generous odds (paid €24.50 on the Tote) having previously filled the runner-up spot here on the Flat.

Winning trainer Michael Mulvany said, “He’s come back to form, and ran well the last day. I was not expecting him to be 20/1, and I had a small bet.

“He’s a horse that’s had a few problems all year, and hopefully we’ll aim now at a 0-116 two and a half miles handicap hurdle at Galway.

“He’s bred to be a three miler from the family of Florida Pearl, and whatever he does as a hurdler he’ll be twice as good a chaser.”

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.