Morgan gets off the mark on Stream in feature

Hugh Morgan partnered his first winner as Babbling Stream caused a 20/1 surprise when defying top-weight in the featured Seamus Mulvaney Crockafotha Handicap Hurdle at Bellewstown.

The 21-year-old rider, who is based with De Bromhead at Knockeen, had the gelding close to the pace for most of the 2m4f event but was strongly pressed by both Hey Little Boy and well-backed 3/1 favourite Bhutan at the final flight.

However the seven-year-old gelding found a bit extra on the run-in to beat Bhutan by three quarters of a length, with Hey Little Boy just a neck further away in third.

Morgan said, “I’m based full-time with Henry de Bromhead. I’ve also been lucky enough to spend some time with Jim Bolger before. I’m from Kilmacow in Co. Kilkenny which is only about 20 minutes from where Henry trains.

“I’m delighted and over the moon to ride my first winner. He travelled away and jumped brilliantly like all of Henry’s. I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity and I’m delighted to grab it with both hands.”