Racing/Downpatrick report: Kald River continued the fine run of Tom Taaffe's yard when an easy winner of the Down Hire Centre Beginners Chase at Downpatrick yesterday. Barry Geraghty's mount, who was opening his fencing account, took the lead three out and pulled clear to record a 10-length victory over Ransboro.
"He jumped well, even though he is small, and fences are more his game. We'll keep him low key and have a bit of fun," said Taaffe.
The INH Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle also witnessed a facile winner when Black Apalachi recorded a 20-length success over Amazing Proposal. The winner was making his hurdling debut after a moderate bumper effort last time and winning trainer Philip Rothwell said: "I was disappointed with his run at Galway last time. I think he has lots of ability and he'll go handicapping now."
Brick Lad was also a convincing winner of the opening Fosters Lager Handicap Hurdle. The winner kicked on before four out to record a 10-length win over Orchard Grove.
Ken Whelan partnered his first winner since July when Natural Storm took the Carryduff Shopping Centre Handicap Hurdle. Whelan picked up the spare ride after intended pilot John Sullivan was stood down following a fall in the first.
The Sentel Maiden Hunters Chase produced a dramatic finish which saw Louisburgh run out a fortunate winner. Gauppo Boy looked set for victory after hitting the lead three out and was clear when taking a crashing fall at the second last.
Good Step was left in front with Pancho Villa but the latter then exited at the last. Good Step was still well clear of Louisburgh but stopped to a walk on the run-in and was caught close home.
