The Big Westerner is Limerick Grade Two queen Following on from Air Of Entitlement and Downmexicoway at Down Royal, and Workahead at Leopardstown, there was a 4th St Stephen's Day winner for the Henry de Bromhead yard when The Big Westerner landed the big one at Limerick, the Grade Two Lyons Of Limerick Jaguar Land Rover Novice Hurdle. One of two mares in the line-up, The Big Westerner in the hands of Darragh O'Keeffe, was given most to do by the other female, Mozzies Sister. The victorious market-leader (7/4) was held up in touch, taking a keen hold. Closer in third five out she led travelling well before two out. Pushed along when reaching for that one, The Big Westerner (12/1 from 25/1 with Paddy Power for the Albert Bartlett) was ridden to assert before the last, where she wasn't fluent, staying on well from there to prevail by four and a quarter lengths. "Looking at the race beforehand, we thought there'd be more pace but it was a messy race. She was a bit lit up for the first few furlongs and then she relaxed well but every time she saw a hurdle, she latched on," said O'Keeffe. "I'd say she will be more competitive in a race with more competition up front but she is a classy mare and shows plenty gears. She is a lovely big mare, has plenty scope and is quick at her hurdles as well. "The Marigas (owners) have been very good to me and I'm delighted they have another good mare on their hands." (TW & EM)
