Jones gets Hevelius home

Hevelius benefitted from a fine ride by 7lb claimer Robert Jones to land the Frank Purcell Memorial Handicap Hurdle at Clonmel. Raise The Rafters set a sharp pace in the two-miler and soon opened up a considerable lead.

He cried enough turning for home, however, as Watermelon took over. The new leader was tracked through by Hevelius and Jones sent his mount to the front after the second last. Mind The Steps threw down a strong challenge from the last and the pair duelled it out on the run-in with Jones showing his strength to force Hevelius ahead close home for a half length victory.

"He loves fast ground and was on a reasonable mark but you have to take into account that it was a very poor race," said winning trainer Eric McNamara.

"Robert gave him a very good confident ride and he's great value for his claim."