Serenity Grove wins well on hurdling debut

Serenity Grove brought up plenty of bets when delivering on racecourse debut in the opening maiden hurdle at Downpatrick.

The Henry de Bromhead-trained 5/1 shot moved well for Darragh O'Keeffe with the pair in front approaching the last.

The closest pursuer, Wild Shot completely sprawled upon landing which enabled Serenity Grove to move clear. He came in by 15 lengths from the 7/4 favourite The Greek who had Davy Russell on board as he made a return to the saddle after long-term injury. Wild Shot dropped another 13 lengths back to third at 4/1.

O'Keeffe said: "He had a good run in a point-to-point when he fell at the last. He showed that day that he had some bit of ability.

"He travelled away and jumped great there today. Hopefully he can step forward from today."

Russell said of his comeback on the runner-up: "Yes it's great (buzz) and fantastic to be back.

"I've had a lot of success here and I enjoy coming here, the crowd are very good to me."

The Stewards received a report from Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board Starter,Mr. J.R. Banahan, that L.A. McKenna, rider of Eternal Prince (GB) had failed to obey his instructions at the start. Evidence was heard from the starter and rider concerned. Mr J.R. Banahan stated that he had informed all riders to walk towards him and he raised his flag to indicate to riders to maintain the walk in a controlled manner but L.A. McKenna, riding Eternal Prince (GB), got out of control and this resulted in a false start being called. L.A. McKenna stated that he was riding a tricky horse who was wearing cheek pieces for the first time. He felt that he could not let him stop but it was not his intention to break fast at the start. Having viewed the recording of the incident and considered the evidence, the Stewards were of the opinion that L.A. McKenna was in breach of Rule 208 by failing to comply with the starters instructions. Having taken his clean previous record into consideration, the Stewards suspended L.A. McKenna for one raceday.