Rashaan proves a shrewd purchase for Kidd

The first juvenile hurdle of the season provided a 33/1 shock as Rashaan took the Railway Bar 3YO Maiden Hurdle in convincing fashion at Roscommon.

The market suggested it was a two-horse affair with Lagostovegas (6/4) and King Christophe (15/8) proving popular but punters were in for a rude surprise.

Lagostovegas was prominent throughout and led entering the straight but Mikey Fogarty produced Rashaan with an ominously strong challenge to lead approaching the final flight.

The Colin Kidd-trained gelding soon settled the issue and drew clear on the run-in to score by six lengths.

Lagostovegas took the runner-up spot, with King Christophe another 11 lengths away in third.

Kidd said, "He's been working well and is class. His half-brother (Rayeni) was second in a 2,000 Guineas to Mastercraftsman. I think he was the best-bred horse in the race. I bought him out of Mick Halford's at the February sale and he looks value now."

Kidd indicated that his charge could now go for the winners' contest at Listowel and added, "I wouldn't rule out going for a mile-and-a-half or mile-six maiden on the Flat with him."

(GC & AM)