Azzuri gets off the mark in Roscommon

Azzuri the most experienced horse of the seven that contested Roscommon's opening median auction maiden, reaped the benefits of those previous efforts when battling to a length and a quarter success.

The 15/8 favourite was having his fourth start this evening and broke well before being settled in second by Colin Keane as Artiste Celebre cut out the pace.

With a quarter of a mile to go in this extended mile and two contest, Azzuri came under the whip but took over in front. Strong-travelling Manitobian on debut for Dermot Weld and Pat Smullen, loomed up on his shoulder and was soon on terms.

Racing into the final furlong and Manitobian held a narrow advantage, however, Azzuri knuckled down and finished best to shed his maiden tag.

Manitobian had been very weak in the market all day and went off at 11/2.

Handler Ger Lyons was represented by his brother and assistant trainer Shane Lyons who said: "It was a brave performance. They went too quick the last day and he didn't get home. He was more professional today, went through the gears and his experience told.

"He handled the ground and they got the best of it. He'll probably get further."

Additional reporting by Alan Magee