Shandon stars in novice hurdle

FORMER champion Ruby Walsh again proved the star of the show at Kilbeggan last night when recording a double on Shandon Star and Seagull Eile.

Walsh was seen at his patient best on the Willie Mullins-trained Shandon Star in the Tommy Victor Novice Hurdle, settling his mount in mid division before gradually closing on the leaders on the final circuit. He delivered his challenge on the inside approaching the final flight and appeared to have the race in safe-keeping when his nearest rival Mr Fitzer crashed, leaving Walsh’s mount to triumph over favourite Duneden.

Curragh trainer Kevin O’Brien expressed his relief after Seagull Eile completed a long overdue win in the Bank of Ireland Handicap Hurdle, completing the former champion’s double.