NAVAN REPORT

MCCREERY’S DOWNFORCE AT DOUBLE

THE Willie Mccreery-trained Downforce made it back to back victories in the featured Cork Stakes at Navan yesterday.

Just four runners went to post for this Listed contest and Son Of Rest was the odds on favourite.

However, the market leader had no answer to the Billy Lee-ridden front runner who asserted in good style nearing the final furlong.

At the line Downforce, who won this race when it was run at Cork last year, had a length and a quarter to spare.

“He just loves this ground and if it stays soft he could well head for the Gladness Stakes at Naas on Friday,” said Mccreery (above). “He’ll probably have most of the summer off so we’ll keep him busy while the ground remains in his favour.”

Johnny Murtagh got off the mark for 2018 as the well backed Urban Beat landed the opening five furlong maiden.

The Shane Foley-ridden colt finished out strongly over the last furlong to defeat the experienced Pretty Boy Floyd by a length.

“I think he could be a nice sprinter. He’s got size and scope and I would hope that there is more to come from him,” declared Murtagh.

Wayne Lordan was another to open his account for the season as he partnered Warnaq to a commanding success in the mile handicap.

The Matthew Smith-trained fouryearold made all the running for a six length victory over the top weight Inscribe.

Ger Lyons and Colin Keane maintained their impressive early season form as Flat To The Max ran out a clear cut winner of the mile maiden.