Taaffe solves problem with enterprising ride

Pat Taaffe was seen to great effect aboard easy winner Champagne Problem in the Buy Tickets On www.CorkRacecourse.ie Maiden Hurdle at Cork.

With his mount rather keen early on, the young jockey gave her her head, allowing her to stride on and settle in front. The duo had soon built up a clear lead over the chasing pack.

Turning out of the back straight Taaffe looked well in command and could even afford a look over his shoulder on the run-in.

It was an impressive performance from the Willie Mullins trained daughter of Fame And Glory. A Sligo bumper winner for previous trainer Tom Taaffe, she looks a smart recruit to jumping.

Riding his first winner over hurdles, Pat Taaffe said; "we knew she would be keen as she is enthusiastic at home but has that class to keep going.

"The first four furlongs weren't easy and she was green on her own in front. She schools well, she won over 2m2f at Sligo which is a stiff track so I let her bob along today and there was no point in fighting her.

"I was wondering why the other lads left me so far clear and when you are in front that far you start second-guessing yourself. She has a high cruising speed and is able to keep going at it, which is the sign of a good horse.

"She had a blow afterwards so hopefully there are good things to look forward to."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes