Mysticaltou appreciates faster ground

Mysticaltou bridged a gap of nearly three years since her only previous win on debut in a Kilbeggan maiden when landing the Ciaran Russell Auto Sales, Downpatrick Mares Handicap Hurdle in fine style.

The eight-year-old daughter of Shantou benefitted from a recent run on the all-weather at Dundalk, and had also dropped down to a career low mark of 99. My Betty cut out the running in this 2m1f event but was challenged by the Shane Ryder-trained Mysticaltou coming down the hill after two out.

The 8/1 chance jumped to the front at the final flight and soon asserted under Barry Browne.

The 7lb claimer could afford to look around in the closing stages as his mount won cosily by two and a half lengths. Littlestickarubarb took the runner-up spot with My Betty another two and three quarters lengths away in third.

Ryder said, "She's her own worst enemy, she can pull a bit and she can be very, very keen but Barry gave her a great ride there. My Betty was always going to make it. The race went a treat for her.

"I didn't recommend them to back her after the last day when she fell out of the stalls in Dundalk but maybe she was in season.

"It's great, she deserved it. She's probably never run on ground with firm in it before so maybe we have found the key to her."

(MG & AM)