Moscow storms home on first start in over a year Moscow Storm, in the colours of 2006 Queen Mother Champion Chase hero Newmill, took the Martinstown Opportunity Maiden Hurdle for 6yo's and upwards for trainer James Nash and owner Mary Hayes with Ben Dalton in the saddle. The 8yo son of Moscow Society was having his ninth career start today and was sent off at just 6/1 having showed plenty of ability in the past. Having his first start in just a few days over a year, the chestnut gelding raced in mid-division early on before moving into a closer fourth at the fourth last hurdle. He came with his challenge at the third last and got on terms with the leader. He soon led after that flight and went clear before the second last, staying on well to score by five and a half lengths at the line. The Liam Kenny trained The Bishop’s Day ran well to take second at 14/1 under Paddy Kennedy while the 7/4 favourite Mallowney could only manage third a further four lengths back for trainer Tim Doyle with Martin Burke in the saddle. Winning trainer James Nash said afterwards: "He is a horse whose had loads of problems. Loads of small ones and I thought he might need the run today. "I’d say he might have one more run over hurdles as he will go over fences sooner rather than later." (On-course reporting by Alan Magee)
