Top jumps trainer Gordon Elliott proved his versatility as he recorded a first ever two-year-old winner in saddling Beckford to make a successful debut in the Foran Equine Irish European Breeders Fund Auction Maiden at the Curragh.

The son of Bated Breath quickened to lead inside the final quarter-mile and Declan McDonogh drove him out to beat Red Persian by three-quarters of a length.

Elliott said of his 10-1 scorer: “That’s my first two-year-old winner and I’m not sure if I’ve even had a two-year-old runner before. It’s also my first winner at the Curragh.

“I was nervous beforehand as I’d never had a two-year-old winner, but all his work was good and Declan had ridden him at home. I’ve three or four two-year-olds that I like and he is one of them.

Curragh’s temporary facilities to be tested at first meetings of the year

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Cliffs Of Moher takes Dee Stakes for Aidan O’Brien

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Venice Beach leads home Aidan O’Brien 1-2-3 in Chester Vase

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Willie Mullins closes gap in battle for trainers’ title

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“There are 20 in the syndicate and they are from Ireland and England.”