Son Of Westerner Leads Home 1-2 For Coolmore NH Sires

The Cathal Don (5g Westerner - Flying Answer, by Anshan) prevailed in a thrilling finish to Friday’s maiden hurdle at Kilbeggan.

Henry de Bromhead’s charge was sent off joint-favourite with The Greek (Leading Light), the pair having been placed on both their starts over hurdles. The market leaders had a clear advantage approaching the final flight and The Cathal Don dug deep to win by half a length, the pair finishing 19 lengths clear of the field.

Speaking after the race, winning rider Rachael Blackmore said, “He enjoyed the track and the ground, and hopefully there will be more days to come now. He goes nicely at home so it was nice that he could do that today.”

Owned by Richard Frayne and bred by Mrs BD Byrne, The Cathal Don is a half-brother to Graded chaser The Mighty Don.