Mister Wilson and Keith Donoghue (left) leading Suttons Hill© Photo Healy Racing
Three-time flat winner Mister Wilson (16/5) got off the mark on his eighth jumps start today, landing Listowel's John B. Keane Maiden Hurdle for trainer Gavin Cromwell, jockey Keith Donoghue and owner Darren Cahill.
All of the Alhebayeb gelding's previous wins were gained on testing flat ground and today out-battled Suttons Hill on the run-in, despite erring at the final flight.
Afterwards Cromwell said “I'd say the flat track was a big help to him as he needs an easy two miles. I couldn't see him staying two-miles on heavy ground during the winter and they got racing early enough today which wasn't ideal, but he had been banging on the door and was due a win.
“His hurdle experience stood to him but is still learning. He wears a hood, is a keen-going sort but he's getting there.”