Herkel Takes Thurles Opener

The opening race, the Urlingford Maiden Hurdle was a lively betting heat this morning, Tawaagg shortening from 7s into 2s (easy to back on track, returning a 4) and those who invested in Willie Mullins' gelding failed by just a short head to collect. Herkel and Andrew McNamara were his conqueror.

Ruby Walsh had to switch to the inner before the last on Tawaagg as the space between Grange Alainn and Herkel shut. Kevin Coleman lost his reins on Grange Alainn on the run-in and Herkel got on top close home. Tawaagg came home well to be just the minimum margin down at the line. There was a steward's enquiry but there was no alteration.

Edward O'Grady trains the winning son of Hernando for the Merry Thatchers Syndicate.

Power Of Attorney the 6/4 favourite, was twenty four lengths adrift of the principals in fourth. (EM)