Mannon's bro proves punters Buddy Budtairis justified good support on his handicap debut to take the 2m5f handicap hurdle at Tramore. The Moscow Society gelding was runner-up in a Downpatrick maiden over the summer for Brian Hamilton, and was having just his second run since joining Henry de Bromhead. Available at 14/1 in the morning and backed on track from 10/1 into 8/1, his supporters must have contemplated tearing up their tickets as he struggled two out. However a mistake by leader The Bold Beckey at the final flight gave a chink of light, and Andrew Lynch’s mount finished with a real flourish to head Indian Fairy in the closing stages. The winning margin was a length and a quarter, with 7/2 favourite Perrie Hill staying on to be just a half-length further back in third. De Bromhead said, "I'm delighted with that. I thought that he might need better ground but we were hoping for a good run. He finished out his race really well and it was a lovely performance. "I'm not sure what we will do with him now, we might bring him back here on New Year's Day. He is a full-brother to Moscow Mannon and Cordelia Belle is their half-sister." (DM & AM)
