Three Is Company galloped his rivals into the ground to run out a convincing winner of the opening claiming hurdle at Limerick this afternoon.

Gordon Elliott saddled three in the two-mile-five contest but Mooltazem refused to race again and was left at the start.

Jack Kennedy bounced out in front on Three Is Company and he was soon a couple of lengths clear.

Stable-mate Doctor Phoenix the 6/4 favourite, came under pressure leaving the back straight and Davy Russell stood up on him before the second last.

Kennedy kicked on going to the penultimate flight on Three Is Company and the 9/4 shot soon had matters in hand, recording a seven-length success over Toushan Oscar Lantern plugged on past Doctor Phoenix to finish a moderate third.

"I think these races are a good idea and we're two from two in these new Claiming Hurdles,” said Elliott.

"My horses are there to be claimed and he'll be a fun horse for somebody.

"Mooltazem won't be getting a saddle on him in my place again and Doctor Phoenix seems to have been gone for a long time."

James McAuley claimed Three Is Company for €8,000 to be trained by Denis Hogan. No other claims were made.

(Quotes by Tom Weekes)