Gymkhana makes great start for Lyons French import Gymkhana (12/1) started on the right note for Ger Lyons when landing the Naas Racecourse Launches The 2017 Flat Season Handicap. Twenty five to one chance Athas An Bhean was another placed runner for Adrian Keatley after Royal Diplomat (2nd in the opener) and Jet Streaming (3rd in race two). However Athas An Bhean and the rest couldn't cope with the Patrick Cassidy-owned Gymkhana, as he powered on inside the final furlong for a two and a quarter length win. Old-stager Maarek ran a fine race under his welter-burden top-weight to finish third, half a length back. Ger Lyons also saddled the fourth home, Imagine If, whilst Bubbly Bellini, successful in the corresponding event for the past couple of years, here had to settle for fifth. "He's been very straight forward and I felt if it was seven furlongs I would have fancied him to be in the money. I was learning as much about him as everyone else today," said Lyons on the Colin Keane-ridden winner. "That was a nice performance and he has plenty of toe but you would like to think that he will get further. It's a nice way to start the season and the three-year-old (Imagine If) ran a cracker. "I'm delighted to have new owners in the yard and to train a winner for them." P.J. Smullen, rider of Sharliyna trained by D. K. Weld, reported to the Clerk of Scales that his mount lost its action at halfway. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer reported to the Stewards that Sharliyna trained by D. K. Weld was slightly lame post race. The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Tatlisu, trained by Richard Fahey (in GB), at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be post race normal. (AM & EM)
