Son Of Mahler Impresses On Rules Debut

John McConnell has another smart recruit on his hands in the shape of Kinbara (4g Mahler - Dali’s Theatre, by Lomitas), who made a winning rules debut in Thursday’s four-year-old bumper at Killarney.

Successful on his sole start for Stuart Crawford in May, Kinbara was sent off second favourite in the colours of new owner Ms Caroline Ahearn. Racing prominently under Ben Harvey, the son of Mahler made smooth headway to lead approaching the two furlong marker and was ridden clear inside the final furlong. Keeping on well, he won by three lengths and three quarters, while runner-up Nottodaybobo (Flemensfirth) finished clear of the field.

Speaking after the race, the winning rider said, “He is a nice horse and was impressive when he won his point to point. We haven't overly worked him so weren't 100% sure how good he was but he toughed it out well and will improve a lot with time. He is a nice horse to look forward to.”

Bred by Ms T Hassett, Kinbara continues a fine run for the stable, whose recent winners include impressive bumper winner Encanto Bruno (Mahler).

That same evening at Worcester, No No Maestro (7g Mahler - Maisey Down, by Rakaposhi King) made an impressive return to hurdling for Fergal O’Brien and Paddy Brennan.

The son of Mahler completed a hat-trick over fences last season and was well-supported in the market ahead of the Novices’ Hurdle over two miles and seven furlongs. Making all under Paddy Brennan, he gained a four length advantage approaching the final flight and kept on strongly to score by seven and a half lengths, with a distance back to the third.

No No Maestro is owned by the Don Sebastiao Partnership and was bred by Michael Lacy.