Claimer Malone steers first winner for Byrnes Seven pounds claimer Gareth Malone partnered a winner on his first ride for trainer Charles Byrnes at Down Royal today when Shanpallas landed the Barclay IT Services Handicap Hurdle for the pair. Malone tracked the leaders on the son of Golan before moving him to the front before the second last. The pair held a narrow lead at the final flight but were helped by the mistake of eventual runner-up High Gales (disputing second at the time), before staying on well on the run-in for a five and a half lenths win. Byrnes wasn't present for the win but Malone did later state “the ground was the key to him and he travelled all the way which helped, as they went a right gallop. He can be a bit free and I maybe got there a bit soon as he idled but he was quick away from the last and had plenty in hand.” Sir Ector, the 3/1 favourite who finished last of the 18 finishers, was examined by the veterinary officer and found to be coughing post-race. By Thomas Weekes, quotes from Michael Graham.
