All too easy for Musawama

Formerly with John Gosden (won two then in the Hamdan Al Maktoum colours) and after that Gordon Elliott, having been bought for 55,000 guineas at Tattersalls in July 2011, Musawama positively bolted up on his initial outing for Denis Cullen in the opening Join The Party Raceday Maiden Hurdle at Downpatrick.

Barry Cash 's mount made all, he was clear after four out, he was a distance ahead from before two out and he was eased right down on the run-in to very easily beat Nell's Nan by thirty one lengths. Well-backed second favourite Westhaven (5/2 into 7/4) finished a further three lengths back in third whilst market-leader Faustina Pius was a further thirty three lengths back in fourth.

Denis Cullen said: "That was the plan - to make it. He settles well and Barry gave him a good ride.

"We probably underestimated how good he is. He has been schooling well. We were confident, but a bit worried about the ground."

Successful owner Martin Flinter is based beside Punchestown. (MG & EM)