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Michael Graham

Michael Graham

New Ross one for O'Brien and Slevin

Mon 31st May 2021, 18:27

New Ross on his way to victoryNew Ross on his way to victory
© Photo Healy Racing

New Ross justified favouritism for Joseph O'Brien and JJ Slevin in the first split of the extended two and a half mile maiden hurdle in Punchestown.

The Doyen gelding began to close in third after three out and went for a run on the inner after the next hurdle.

He came to take over at the head of affairs from long-time leader Look Dont Touch with just over a quarter of a mile to race.

He asserted before the last but gave his backers a scare by hitting it hard which affected his momentum. Look Dont Touch got a sniff of victory in his nostrils and tried to rally on the run-in but couldn't bridge the gap.

The 12/1 runner-up got to within three parts of a length of the 5/4 winner. There was a 13-length gap back to third-placed Pay The Fine at 125/1.

Slevin said: “He had plenty of experience and rated 113 was entitled to do it. I’m delighted for his owner (Pat McGee) and it’s just a pity he can’t be here.

“He’d a very good run here the last day and likes that bit of better ground. I’m sure he’ll keep going over the summer and maybe find a little novice.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee

About Michael Graham
Michael has worked in horse racing journalism for more than 15 years, having also written a weekly betting column on Gaelic football and hurling for a newspaper. He is involved in writing the My Racing Story features on this website. He spent a year in South Africa completing a Diploma in Business Administration and also studied Newspaper Journalism in Belfast. He enjoys playing 5-a-side football on a regular basis.