Star Counsel hits the front under Davy Russell© Photo Healy Racing
The well-backed Star Counsel got off the mark on her fifth start over flights as she took the M.D.O'Shea Maiden Hurdle.
Available at 8/1 this morning the Edmond Kent trained seven-year-old was well-supported throughout the day and she went off the 3/1 second favourite.
Settled towards rear by Davy Russell she improved into sixth as they entered the straight for the final time.
She was ridden in fourth after three out and went in pursuit of the leader at the last. She got to the front inside the final 50 yards, going on to score by three parts of a length. The Gatechecker (13/2), who proved friendless with punters, looked the most likely winner after two out but he had to settle for second under Mark Walsh for Michael Hourigan. Childrens List was sent off the 5/4 favourite but he finished a disappointing third under Ruby Walsh for Willie Mullins.
Edmond Kent said afterwards: "You can't bully her into a race and you have to take your time so I knew Davy would suit her - he's a great jockey.
"She has a bumper and hurdle won now so will be worth something to breed from but she'll be kept going now as long as the ground stays soft."
Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes
