Mint Boy (right) overhauls Zaidi © Photo Healy Racing
The Golf Memberships At Gowran Park Maiden Hurdle was won by Mint Boy (15/8) who got up close home under Keith Donoghue.
A point-to-winner and placed in both bumpers, the Gavin Cromwell-trained gelding tracked the leaders and moved into third before two out. Second over the final flight, he looked booked for that spot early on the run-in but stayed on well to edge past 4/5 favourite Zaidi in the final couple of strides for a short head success.
“It was a good performance. He's a nice horse and he had a couple of good runs in bumpers last year,” said Donoghue.
“On his run in Fairyhouse he was probably just a big weak horse.
“It was a good performance there today, he jumped a little bit clumsy but he got the hang of it.
“I'd say he's a stayer and I'd say he'll be a nice horse in time.
“The ground is heavy but it's loose and they are getting through it, I thought it would be worse.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
