Mawaakef takes opener

The opening Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden was claimed by the 7/4 favourite Mawaakef under a strong ride by Declan McDonogh.

McDonogh had to work hard from over a furlong out but the Azamour gelding responded well to pressure to get up and lead close and deny Factum by a neck.

Winning jockey McDonogh said afterwards: “I thought he’d win a little easier but he just got a bit tired.”

“He stayed at it well and he’s a nice staying horse in the making, he was very green around the bends but he’s got a good attitude.”