Drish Hero makes fast start for Des Donovan

Drish Hero gave connections an immediate return on their recent investment when prominent throughout to take the Phil & Patsy Kierans Memorial Handicap at Bellewstown and complete a double on the evening for champion jockey Colin Keane.

The four-year-old gelding, who won over six furlongs at Dundalk last month but was trying the minimum trip for the first time, got away smartly from stalls and was up with the pace throughout. No Speed Limit was also disputing the lead throughout and the pair fought out a great tussle from over a furlong out with Drish Hero (7/1) just edging the verdict by a short-head. Amazing Emma was a length and three quarters back in third.

Donovan, who trains near Thurles, said “I only have the horse about three weeks. I bought him off Donal Commins and I always thought five furlongs was his trip.

“He battled it out well in the last furlong and should improve again from that.

“He loved the ground and has won at Dundalk as well. I was a bit worried drawn 13 today but he jumped out well and Colin gave him a great ride.”

Keane was on the mark earlier when Tuwaiq (11/10 favourite) made a successful debut in the juvenile maiden.