Westerner Sires Ultra Impressive Maiden Hurdle Winner

Wetlands (5g Westerner - Un Jour D Ete, by Dano-Mast) appeared well-named when relishing testing conditions in Monday’s maiden hurdle at Ayr.

The Nicky Richards-trained bay won a bumper at the end of last season and had since been placed in both his starts over hurdles. He was sent off a short-priced favourite for his latest start over two miles, with Brian Hughes riding him to chase the leaders and led from two out. Racing clear with two hurdles left to jump, success never looked in doubt as the Trevor Hemmings-owned bay crossed the line 28 lengths ahead of his rivals.

A €55,000 store purchase, Wetlands was bred by Aidan McGoldrick.