Star Max shines brightest in Gowran Park

Star Max kept on best in the final 100 yards to beat Future Proof in the opening maiden hurdle at Gowran Park.

The pair raced handily behind front-running Aim For Glory who crashed out at the second last leaving Future Proof in front.

Future Proof was soon ridden by Sean Flanagan as Star Max and Rachael Blackmore, in the Gigginstown silks, closed on the run to the final flight.

It was Future Proof who held a narrow advantage jumping it and he looked to be coming home best inside the final furlong.

However, Blackmore got into the drive position and her mount responded to get up in the latter stages and win by half a length at 5/2.

Future Proof went off the 6/4 favourite and he was seven lengths in front of third-placed Christopher Robin (16/1).

Trainer Joseph O'Brien said: “Rachael gave him a great ride because he's an awkward fella.

“He jumped a bit better today and Rachael had to be strong on him.

“I'm delighted to get him to win his maiden and he'll probably step into handicap company now.”

Additional reporting by Gary Carson