Lecky Watson benefits from terrific Townend ride to prevail at Thurles
THURLES THRILLER: Lecky Watson and Paul Townend, right, win the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle from Rushmount. Picture: Healy Racing
Lecky Watson brought quality to Thursday’s card in Thurles but the real class came from the saddle as Paul Townend produced a superb effort to get the Willie Mullins-trained 4-7 favourite across the line in front in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle.
His mount, fourth in last season’s Champion Bumper, was keen from the outset as Shannon Royale dictated matters. There were four runners still in with a chance turning for home in the two-mile-seven race and it looked as though track newcomer Rushmount, brought with a strong run, was set to prevail.
