The opening race on day five of the Listowel Harvest Festival, the Helena Sheahan Memorial Maiden over a mile, went to the newcomer Bancnuanaheireann for trainer Jim Bolger with Kevin Manning aboard.
The 4yo son of Chevalier was sent off at 12/1 and blitzed his rivals on his first ever start taking up the lead over a furlong out before going quickly clear to score easily by an impressive nine and a half lengths. Loch Ard fared best of the rest back in second at 5/1 for David Wachman and Wayne Lordan while Mafi was a further length and a quarter back in third at 7/1.
The well fancied 1/2 favourite Sunset Stanza could only manage a disappointing fourth along way behind the winner.
The win was a welcome one for Bolger who has not tasted success since Cleofila won at the Curragh on the 20th of August.
Ger Flynn, travelling head lad for Jim Bolger, said afterwards: "He is a fine big horse. We have been patient with him as he has taken time to come to himself. He handled the ground well and is a nice prospect."
After the race Pat Smullen reported to the Stewards that his mount Sunset Stanza did not act on the ground.
Donal Murphy
