Former pointer Kilford opens a/c under rules

Kilford opened his account under rules when putting up a fine front-running display in the Irish Stallion Farms EBF Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel.

The Snurge gelding won three point-to-points but was on the sidelines for 21 months before switching to the track earlier this year.

Leonard Whitmore 's charge showed promise on his first start over hurdles here last month when third to Vedettariat, and the 7/1 chance confirmed that potential over the same extended 2m3f trip.

A mistake at the last didn't prove crucial as nearest pursuer Perfect Woman the 2/1 favourite, was also not fluent.

Harley Dunne 's mount stayed on well on the run-in, drawing clear in the closing stages to score by four and a half lengths. Bridies Boy kept on into third a further five and a half lengths adrift.

Whitmore said, "In fairness to him he was a hurt horse but had won three point to points and wasn't too bad then.

"This staying type of track suited him and he stayed galloping today. He didn't the last day but it might have been the soft ground then.

"He's getting older now so we'll keep him going."

(TW & AM)