Easy for Sarabad in opener

Sarabad revelled in the testing conditions when sauntering home an easy winner of the opening maiden hurdle at Clonmel this afternoon.

The Willie Mullins-trained gelding had been runner-up on his three previous starts but made no mistake today in the two-mile event.

Ruby Walsh bounced the 7/4 joint-favourite (from 9/4) out in front and he made all for a comprehensive 29-length success.

Market rival Lughnasa (6/4 to 7/4) had tried to mount a challenge turning for home but was under pressure and looked booked for second when crashing out at the second last, leaving the winner well clear.

“Ruby made it a test of stamina and that seems to be what he wants. I wouldn't be afraid to go two-and-a-half or three miles with him,” said Mullins afterwards.

As regards the ground the winning trainer quipped: “That could be described as Auteuil ground where he had his best form before.”

(Additional reporting by Alan Magee)