Mahon one two as odds-on fav falls at last

Odds-on favourite Mr Antolini was challenging and on terms when falling at the last in the opening O'Leary Insurances Maiden Hurdle at Galway. This left the way clear for a Steve Mahon one two as Cable (Paul Townend) defeated Ceide Fields (Kevin Sexton).

Cable, a beaten favourite the last twice, on the back of an excellent effort here at the festival, made most but Mr Antolini had loomed up as a huge threat when coming down under Davy Russell at the final flight.

Second favourite, Cable, then fought off Ceide Fields, by two and a half lengths.

"I made the mistake and got it wrong as originally I didn't think he'd win his bumper and after his run here at the festival, we were hood-winked into running him in a bumper," said Mahon.

"He finds another gear over a hurdle though, and he jumps a fence really well and is more of a chasing type in time - he is still only four.

"My other horse (Ceide Fields) also ran a blinder, and I was happy going to the last (hurdle) and obviously was delighted to win and also finish second."

The Stewards interviewed P. Townend, rider of Cable (GB), concerning his use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(f), in that he used the whip with excessive force and having considered his record, cautioned him concerning his future responsibilities in this regard.

(TW & EM)