Listowel-born David O'Leary and Tinahely trainer Philip Rothwell combined to complete an opening race double at Downpatrick. Traditional, a winner of a maiden hurdle here last month, set the ball rolling in the opening novice hurdle when defeating the fast finishing Timpeall An Ti by a rapidly diminishing half length. The Kerry rider later teamed up with Rothwell's light-weight Classic Lash to come home clear of Charizad in the next.
Newry teenager Brian Hughes recorded his first success in the plate when he partnered 8/1 shot Perugino Lady to land the featured Mace Champion Apprentice Handicap for his boss Kevin Prendergast.
Damian Murphy, also attached to the Kevin Prendergast yard, produced Gerry Keane's Mighty Minnow with a perfectly timed challenge to wear down Butterscotch close home in the 1m5f apprentice handicap. Warm favourite Petite Ville which trailed in 11th was found to be coughing post race while Davy Condon picked up a three-day ban for excessive use of his whip on the runner-up.
Paul Carberry brought his tally to 42, three clear of nearest pursuer Ruby Walsh in the championship race, when he made every yard a winning one aboard D Judge in the beginners chase.
Filed by Laura Reynolds
