Mahler Mare Justifies Favouritism On Hurdle Debut

Bumper winner Bohemian Birch (5m Mahler - Over It, by Overbury) transferred her talents to hurdling on Thursday, when justifying even-money favouritism in the mares’ maiden hurdle at Tramore.

Trained by Willie Mullins for owner/breeder Nigel King, the daughter of Mahler finished third on debut and went on to win a bumper in authoritative fashion. She stepped up to two miles and five furlongs on her hurdle bow, with heavy ground adding to the test of stamina, as she chased the leaders under Paul Townend. Improving to dispute from the second last, she was soon headed but kept on well to regain the advantage close home and win by two and a quarter lengths.

Speaking after the race, Townend said, “It’s hard work on that ground and she had to dig really deep to stay going. Nigel (King, owner/breeder) does well with his fillies and he seems to have another nice one now.”