Clifton Warrior and Rachael Blackmore © Photo Healy Racing
Clifton Warrior (1/1) was a fourth winning favourite of the day as he scored emphatically in the BetVictor Maiden Hurdle.
The chestnut son of Schiaparelli, sire of good staying hurdlers Ronald Pump and Indefatigable, chased the leaders before coming through to take over in front two out. Driven clear before the last by Rachael Blackmore, he stayed on well to win by eight and a half lengths from Tudor Manor (5/1).
The victorious 5-year-old had finished fourth in a Punchestown bumper for Shane Ryder in his only previous race ‘under rules’.
Winning trainer Henry de Bromhead remarked: "I'm delighted for the (Warriors) syndicate who are new to us and Hugh Bleahan (previous owner) recommended him in fairness to him and felt he was unlucky last year.
"He looked good over two (miles) today and we might look for a novice handicap now.
"I'm delighted for the guys and I hope they know how hard it normally is to get a maiden hurdle winner! There are 10 in the syndicate and from all over Ireland."
Quotes from Thomas Weekes
