Hayes off the mark for Walsh on Clouds

High In The Clouds stuck on well in the closing stages, under Frank Hayes, to claim the New Inn Opportunity Maiden Hurdle at Clonmel.

Hayes sent the 9/4 joint favourite into the lead after the third last in the two-and-a-half mile contest and he responded well when tackled in the straight. Cliffside Park threw down a challenge at the second last but couldn't find a way past the John Joe Walsh-trained gelding, who knuckled down for a two-and-a-quarter length success.

Fellow 9/4 joint-favourite Coolfighter was well held back in fourth.

High In The Clouds was making his first start since St Stephen's Day last year when he had chased home Irish Bulletin in Limerick.

Hayes, 24 and from Thurles, was riding his first winner in Ireland. He had partnered a few winners in Britain when based with Andrew Balding and David Pipe.

"I'd delighted for Frank and he did what he was told. That's his first winner for me but has been with me for a few years," said Walsh.

"He ran well at Christmas but had been out of action for a little while. Hopefully he'll improve and today's ground suited.

"He'll go for a handicap hurdle next and will make a nice horse over fences in time."

(Quotes by Thomas Weekes)