Blackandamber Vic sees her rivals off

Blackandamber Vic (13/2) was never headed in the Broderick's Electrical Handicap Hurdle at Ballinrobe but she still had to defy a stern challenge for the spoils.

Johnny Burke, on board the winner, took a few lengths out of the field coming to the third last. Crystal Earth tried to hunt her down after the second last. As Blackandamber Vic swept past the three pole it became evident that the only two horses capable of challenging her for the spoils were Crystal Earth and Afatcat who made eye-catching progress on the outside.

Afatcat briefly led on the run to the home bend but Blackandamber Vic hugged the rail and knuckled down to take charge again.

Blackandamber Vic kept on stoutly over the last and defied Crystal Earth (11/4f) and Afatcat (4/1) who were unable to reel her in and had to settle for second and third respectively.

Trainer Norman Lee said: "She's a pure honest little filly and is only 15.2hh.

"She was staying on the last day and we decided to step her up in trip and Johnny gave her a serious ride and made plenty use of her.

"She was idling in front but found plenty and will go for another handicap next; she loves these easy tracks."

Additional reporting by Thomas Weekes