Rachael Blackmore out of luck on first ride back after three-month absence
Rachael Blackmore's hopes of making a winning comeback after more than three months on the sidelines never looked likely in the 2m6f handicap hurdle as last season's 100-1 Grand National runner-up Balko Des Flos could finish only 11th of the 12 finishers.
The record-breaking rider, who became the first woman to win the Grand National on Minella Times in April, had not ridden since July following a fall at Killarney which left her needing surgery to mend a fractured ankle, while she also picked up a nasty hip injury.
Balko Des Flos, the former Ryanair winner, was held up early but never looked like getting into contention as 11-4 favourite Jiving Jerry edged out Coventry and Minx Tiara in a thrilling finish with just over half a length separating the first three home.
He's Mustard
Colonel Mustard, last seen chasing home Champion Hurdle hopeful Echoes In Rain in a Grade 1 at the Punchestown festival, made no mistake in the maiden hurdle under Conor Orr.
The 5-6 shot quickened up smartly on the run-in to beat 40-1 outsider Champagne Vacation by five lengths, with useful bumper performer Harry Alonzo back in third.
Butler off the mark in finale
Timoleague trainer Padraig Butler celebrated his first winner since taking out a licence this year when Da Capo Glory ran out an impressive winner of the concluding bumper.
The Fame And Glory gelding had shaped with significant promise when fifth in the Land Rover Bumper at the Punchestown festival and was much too good for his six rivals, scoring by four and three-quarter lengths at odds of 9-2.
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Published on 23 October 2021inReports
Last updated 18:46, 23 October 2021
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