Zariygann readily lands gamble on hurdling debut

The Michael Halford and Tracey Collins trained Zariygann landed some tidy bets when making a winning start to his hurdling career in Division ll of the Curragh To Curragh Cycle Maiden Hurdle at Roscommon.

As big as 11/2 early doors, the four-year-old was well backed throughout the afternoon, eventually going off 5/6f under Jack Kennedy.

Prominent throughout under the champion jockey, Zariygann headed leader Pearl Of Grange entering the straight and had matters in hand from three out. San Franco came out of the pack to chase the eventual winner but looked held when falling two out.

Mick Halford: “He has the size and scope to do it but you’re always anxious first time over hurdles.

“Jack said he jumped well, he missed one but he said it was his own fault. I said to give him plenty of daylight and let him see them. Jack liked him and said he gave him a nice feel. He’s bred for the job.

“We had plenty of schooling done with him at home with my own lads Tommy and Josh sat on him once or twice. He only schooled on grass twice and it’s nice to get him out and get that done.

“We’ll probably mix it with him. He’s quite raw on the Flat and I thought a couple of runs over hurdles would do him good and settle him.”

Additional reporting by Alan Magee.