Foreman a knockout

THIERRY DOUMEN created a mild surprise when landing the AIG Europe Champion Hurdle at Leopardstown yesterday with Foreman. It was his first ever runner in Ireland, his first winner in Ireland as a trainer and a first success in a Grade One for the 24-year-old.

The result caused little more than a ripple in the Champion Hurdle ante-post market with Coral, Victor Chandler and Cashmans going 20-1. Ladbrokes offered 25-1.

The often-maligned Doumen was in the plate as well and rode the perfect race. “I had plenty of cover and he is a lovely, tough horse”, reported the immaculate Frenchman.