Storm opens jumps account in style

Storm Away proved too strong for her rivals when running out a convincing winner of the Irwins Bakeries Mares Maiden Hurdle at Down Royal.

Davy Russell settled the 5/4 favourite in behind the leaders in the two-miler before taking closer order going to the third last.

West Montan who was still travelling in the lead, blundered away her rider at that flight and Russell soon hit the front on the market leader, ending 50/1 shot Melbourne Lady s short lived spell in front.

What Lies Ahead tried to give chase going to the second last but a slow jump there ended her chances. She could only get within four-and-a-quarter lengths as Pat Flynn's charge galloped on strongly.

The winner was atoning for a short-priced defeat in a Ballinrobe maiden hurdle earlier in the month.

The Kalanisi mare is owned by the Camphor Syndicate which comprises John Carroll, John Arnold, Michael Morrisey and Harry Gray, all from Co Waterford.

None of the syndicate were present for the win but Carroll's brother Thomas was representing him and he said:

“She was bought as a three-year-old. She won her bumper first-time out in Tramore. She's promising.

“She'll maybe go to Listowel if it doesn't come too soon for her. If it is too soon we'll put her away as we hope she'll be a Galway horse next year. It took me three and a half hours coming up today."

(Additional reporting by Michael Graham)