Hawai Game and Paul Townend © Photo Healy Racing
The well-backed favourite Hawai Game (11/10 into 8/11 before the off) made a very pleasing debut over flights in the BetVictor Loyalty Club Maiden Hurdle.
Paul Townend deputised for Mark Walsh on the French bumper winner who made all the running.
Willie Mullins’ half-brother to smart stablemate Easy Game was keen early on but gradually got into a good jumping rhythm and only needed to be pushed to account for Daily Present and The Short One by three and a quarter lengths and a neck.
Frank Berry, racing manager for winning owner JP McManus, remarked: “He did it the hard way, I suppose, he was a bit keen and he'll learn a good bit from today. It was a nice performance.
“He jumped reasonably well and you couldn't ask for any better. We'll see what Willie wants to do with him now and see where he goes.
“We're delighted to get that out of the way.”
Regarding the absent Walsh, Berry added: “He hurt his wrist this morning but he'll be okay, he might not ride for the weekend but he'll be fine.”
Quotes from Gary Carson
