Avellino takes Clonmel opener in style

Avellino landed the odds in fine style when running out an easy winner of the opening mares beginners chase at Clonmel this afternoon.

Dermot McLoughlin 's charge went to post a well backed 4/7 shot in the two-and-a-half mile contest having been third on her return to action, and chase debut, at Fairyhouse last month.

Robbie Power had a slight scare when his mount was bumped at the first fence but it proved plain sailing thereafter.

She moved up to dispute on the top bend, before the home straight, and hit the front going to the second last.

The daughter of Muhtathir quickened away before the final fence and a big bold leap there sealed matters as she went on to record a 12 length success over La Feline

McLoughlin said:- “She’s a grand filly. She won two bumpers, a maiden hurdle and now she has won over fences.

“Robbie just said the ground is very tacky, very holding but she put in a great round of jumping and he had them well covered three out.

“She was unlucky, maybe, at Fairyhouse where she rubbed the last.

“Going forward she’s a nice filly, so once the ground stays safe for her — soft ground — we might look for black type for her.”

(Quotes by Alan Magee)