Invitation Only wins well on racecourse debut

The Willie Mullins trained Invitation Only made virtually all to win the bumper at Navan, the Navan Race Members (Pro/Am) Flat Race.

Successful on his sole point-to-point start for Sean Doyle at Ballynoe in March of 2015, the son of Flemensfirth was then purchased by current connections.

Sent off the 5/6 favourite today he was sent straight to the front by Patrick Mullins.

He was joined down the back straight by Lakeside Castle before regaining the lead early in the straight.

The five-year-old gelding was then ridden over a furlong out and soon stretched clear, going on to score easily by seven lengths in the colours of Graham and Andrea Wylie. Thirsty Work (8/1) finished second under Kate Harrington for her mother Jessica while newcomer Joey Sasa was a short head back in third under Nina Carberry for Noel Meade at 16/1.

Patrick Mullins said afterwards: "He's done a lot of good work at home. He's a galloper and it's a pity we didn't have him ready in time for Cheltenham.

"I'd imagine he'll go to Punchestown for a winners' race. He's a staying chaser for the future."

STEWARDS REPORT

The Stewards received a report from Joan Taylor, Turf Club Veterinary Officer, that she was unable to positively identify Flemens Cross trained by Adrian Paul Keatley, from the markings contained in the passport presented for this horse. Evidence was heard from the trainer and the Turf Club Veterinary Officer. Having considered the evidence, the Stewards ordered the withdrawal of Flemens Cross and referred the matter to the Chief Executive of the Turf Club for further investigation.

Additional reporting by Alan Magee