Vadamos Gelding Readily On Top At Downpatrick

Catena Zapata (7g Vadamos - Pretty Priceless, by Pearl Of Love) turned in a polished display to win over hurdles at Downpatrick on Sunday.

The seven-year-old was claimed by trainer Ian Donoghue for €6,000 after winning at Killarney last month and was making his first start over hurdles since May of last year.

Heading to the front under Sam Ewing before the first hurdle, the son of Vadamos was three lengths ahead of his rivals before two out and strode clear for a five-and-a-half-length win over Redwood Queen (by Mahler).

Donoghue said: "We schooled him Wednesday morning at home and he jumped very well. We knew coming out of Henry's [de Bromhead] all his jump well. I'm delighted.

"It wasn't the plan to make it, I left it up to Sam to do whatever he wanted. I thought maybe drop in, but there was no-one going to go so he went himself."

Catena Zapata was bred by Woodtown House Stud.