'That's my first treble so I'm chuffed' - 49-1 hat-trick for Jordan Gainford

You are, by now, probably familiar with the work of Jordan Gainford and the young artist produced some masterpieces on the first day of the new jumps season to help himself to his first treble.

The 20-year-old opened his Cheltenham Festival account in March thanks to The Shunter in the Paddy Power Plate and he is now the early leader in the jump jockeys' championship courtesy of a 49-1 hat-trick all trained by Denise 'Sneezy' Foster.

The first came in the opening maiden hurdle courtesy of Don Diablo, whose task was made a whole lot easier when the favourite Que Famoso got rid of Hugh Morgan at the very first flight.

Tullybeg was next to do the business for Gainford and Foster in the 3m hurdle. The Noel and Valerie Moran-owned six-year-old relished the step up in trip and coasted to a seven-length win over Archies Charm at odds of 7-2.

Denise Foster: treble strike at Down RoyalCredit: Alain Barr

The best was arguably saved until last as Gainford teamed up with Fancy Foundations in the 2m3f beginners' chase. A surge of late support saw him go off at 7-2 and those who participated in the plunge had little to worry about at any stage as the winner jumped particularly well and barely had to leave second gear to secure an eight-length success over Bread And Butter.

Gainford said: "That's my first treble so I'm chuffed. It was a nice way to start the season and I'm really looking forward to the months ahead. Fancy Foundations took to fences well and I'm sure they'll have plenty of nice races in mind for him.

"The plan is to head into Cullentra quite a bit over the summer and I might try ride out in a Flat yard as well to keep myself busy. I'm really enjoying things and I'm very lucky to be getting some nice rides."

Benruben gets De Bromhead off the mark

Henry de Bromhead did not have to wait long to secure his first winner of the new season when Benruben enjoyed a bloodless victory in the 2m handicap chase.

A Grade 3 winner at Roscommon last September, Benruben was always in his comfort zone under Dylan Robinson and had five and a half lengths to spare over Thatsy at the line.

De Bromhead said: "I'm delighted for Seamus Dunne and the syndicate who won him. He's a nice horse who won a Grade 3 for us last season so hopefully he can continue to progress this year.

"Dylan gave him a great ride and always had him in the right place at the right time. It's a nice way to start the season and I'm delighted for everybody involved with the horse."

Results, replays and analysis

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