Kilfenora and Jody McGarvey head for home© Photo Healy Racing
Kilfenora left behind three previous efforts, since beginning his racing life in December, to spring a 50/1 surprise under Jody McGarvey in the opening Festival Party Pack From 25 Euros Maiden Hurdle at Punchestown
He'd gotten the better of the well-backed pace-setting favourite, Agent Boru when making a mistake at the last.
Agent Boru was even worse at the flight and it was left to Mr Showtime and Geneva Barracks to chase home the J P McManus-owned and Eddie Harty-trained Kilfenora, at distances of fifteen lengths and three and a quarter lengths.
McManus and Harty also had Beginningtogetup involved. That 9/1 shot finished twelfth under Barry Geraghty, a place ahead of another McManus hope, Don't Let Go (33/1).
Frank Berry, racing manager to the successful owner, said: "He handled the ground well and jumped well. The penny is only after dropping with him, and as long as the ground stays soft he'll keep going."
The Stewards requested a report from Edward P.Harty, trainer, as to the apparent improvement in form of Kilfenora, placed first, as compared with its recent form.
Patrick Harty, Authorised representative of Edward P. Harty reported that this animal had run three times previously but on the most recent run at Fairyhouse on the 4th February, rider Jody McGarvey suggested post race that his mount got claustrophobic when surrounded during this race and in his opinion he should be fitted with ear plugs, be ridden on the outside, be handy and be positive. He added that the advice offered was put in place today and had the desired effect.
He also described the previous runs at Leopardstown and Punchestown where his charge had been ridden in mid division but had lost his position when surrounded by other horses.
Having considered the evidence the Stewards noted the content of the report.
((AM & EM))
