Russell opens new campaign with convincing win on Crezic

Davy Russell, crowned champion-jockey for the third time at Punchestown on Saturday, got off the mark for the new season when partnering Crezic, trained for Gigginstown House Stud by Gordon Elliott, to victory in the Follow Kilbeggan On Twitter Maiden Hurdle at last night’s rescheduled meeting in Kilbeggan.

Disappointing in Ballinrobe last time, the French-bred five-year-old scored convincingly from newcomer Amschel, with the Charles Byrnes-trained Waterville Dancer, backed from 7/2 to 10/11 favourite, only third.

“He was entitled to win on his Naas form, but he just about handled the track,” said Russell. “He made a couple of small mistakes, but, overall, jumps great. I’m sure Gordon will run him away for the summer and he’ll find his place.”