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Mark Nunan

Mark Nunan

King Kal beats depleted field in Downpatrick opener

Mon 29th Aug 2022, 14:12

King Kal leads Duleek Street over the last King Kal leads Duleek Street over the last
© Photo Healy Racing

Fifteen set out for the A J C Group Maiden Hurdle but only seven remained in contention after a pile-up at the first flight of hurdles. Monrocher led the much-reduced field until the approach to the last when headed by King Kal (5/2) and, from that point, Colm Murphy’s charge stayed on well to account for Duleek Street by a comfortable six lengths. L’or Des Roses was the same margin further back in third.

The winner had shown promise in point-to-points last year and was fourth at Kilbeggan on his previous outing over hurdles.

The 9/4 favourite Nonbinding was amongst those who departed at the first.

Winning rider Brian Hayes said: "He won well but I think the race kind of fell apart. We'll take it. The loose horse wasn't doing us any favours but we avoided him thank God.

"I was happy that I had him (Monrocher) alright, I was hoping something wouldn't come from behind.

"I was on the phone to Colm (Murphy) and he said he was happy with him and was hoping for a good run.

"His jumping was a little bit deliberate at times, maybe it was the undulating track but no harm and he got the job done."

Quotes from Michael Graham

About Mark Nunan
Mark has followed racing since he was a teenager and worked for many years as a broadcaster with the Irish version of Racecall. He joined the Press Association in 2019 and is also a contributor to the Racing Post. A native of Kildare, he now lives in Sligo.