Red As Rust (left) © Photo Healy Racing
The layers got a result in the mares’ maiden hurdle when Red As Rust scored at 25/1 under Conor Orr.
The nine-year-old by Shantou moved up to join the 6/4 favourite Banntown Girl three out and went on entering the straight. Paul Townend tried to nurse hurdling debutant Brooklynn Glory into the contest after that one had been keen early on and the latter hadn’t been asked for her effort in a close second when coming down at the final flight.
The winner, not great at the last herself when around a length in front, was left well clear and crossed the line twelve lengths ahead of Banntown Girl.
Winning trainer Nigel Slevin, based in Enfield Co. Meath, said: “She ran a really good race here last year in a bumper but we kind of over-raced her then and ran her back too quick.
“We went jumping this season, she had a problem in Listowel but came back and ran well in Thurles. She was fourth there and the form has worked out so we were hopeful today.
“She's a grand mare and it's great to get it, at my local track.
“She won a point-to-point and she stays well, she's stoutly bred. I don't know where we go now, we'll plod along with her and see.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
