"That's been a long time coming. He didn't jump great," acknowledged Jody McGarvey after winning the opening Paddy Smyth Memorial Maiden Hurdle at Ballinrobe on the J P McManus-owned and Joseph O'Brien-trained Cradle Mountain (11/4 joint favourite).

A mistake at the last by Cradle Mountain, when in front, gave the pace-setting Echo Lady another chance. In fairness to the victor though, he toughed it out well on the run-in to land the spoils by half a length.

"He's very highly rated on the Flat and would be entitled to beat them, but a lot of days he's been well fancied and didn't win so it's nice to get off the mark," added McGarvey.

"He doesn't travel and doesn't jump so doesn't give you much of a feel."

Cradle Mountain was bred by the O'Brien family's Whisperview Trading Ltd, whilst the gambled-on Creative Talent finished fourth.

The Stewards fined Michael J. McDonagh, trainer, €350 for lodging a passport in respect of Bidasse (FR), in which the vaccinations did not conform with the provisions of Rule 91. The Stewards allowed the horse to run on receipt of the trainer's written assurance that the vaccinations were in order.

The Stewards interviewed J.S. McGarvey, rider of Cradle Mountain, concerning his use of the whip in this race. Evidence was heard from the rider concerned. Having viewed a recording of the race and considered the evidence the Stewards were of the opinion that the rider was in breach of Regulation 10.3(f), in that he used the whip with excessive frequency and having considered his record, suspended him for two race days.

The Turf Club Veterinary Officer examined Rock Lobster (GB), trained by Gordon Elliott, at the request of the Stewards and reported the animal to be blowing hard post race.

J.W. Kennedy, rider of Rock Lobster (GB), trained by Gordon Elliott, reported to the Stewards' Secretaries that his mount was very keen in the early stages and stopped quickly.

(GC & EM)