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Gary Carson
Nara claims Grade 2 prize in style
Nara and Mark Walsh (nearest)
© Photo Healy Racing
Nara asserted in the closing stages to run out a cosy winner of the Grade 2 Carey Glass Irish EBF Mares Novice Chase at Thurles.
Henry de Bromhead’s charge went to post 6/5 favourite in the two-and-a-half mile contest following the withdrawal of early morning market leaders Only By Night and Spindleberry
Mark Walsh had the JP McManus-owned filly to the fore throughout and she had the lead on the final circuit. Broomfield Bijou came to challenge over the second last but was under pressure on the run down to the final fence.
Nara found another gear when asked for an effort on the run-in to post a two-and-a-quarter length success.
The winner was taking her record to two from four over fences, having finished second to Only By Night at this level at Cork last month.
Walsh said afterwards:- "She is still forward-going and keen and jumped a bit better today although made a few novicey mistakes. Hopefully we can iron those out of her but she was good.
"She is only five and it was only her fourth run over fences so she is still learning.
"The non-runners made my job easier and it is lively ground out there."
(Quotes by Tom Weekes)