Lady wins on 'last chance'

Lady Of Portlairge landed some nice on-course bets, as she claimed the Like Us On Facebook Maiden Hurdle.

The Henry De Bromhead trained six-year-old finished a decent fifth on her first start of 2016 at Ballinrobe in May, but disappointed last time out at Clonmel.

Her last six runs were in handicaps, and back in maiden company this evening she was sent off a 10/1 chance, having opened at 14's on-course (was available at 20's this morning).

Settled in mid-division by Dylan Robinson, the daughter of Flemensfirth moved into fourth after the second last.

She was pushed along and came with her challenge on the outer on the run to the last, hitting the front before that flight, going on to score by a length and three parts. William Du Berlais who was sent off the 10/11 favourite, couldn't match the winner from before the last, and he had to settle for second under Mark Walsh for Enda Bolger. Miro completed the placings a further length and a quarter back in third under Jack Kennedy for Gordon Elliott at 11/2.

Henry De Bromhead said afterwards: "I'm delighted with it. It's a pleasant surprise.

"I'm delighted for the owners Paul Hibbard and John Phelan. They've been with me for a few years and that's their first winner.

"She's been a bit disappointing but they persevered with her and they've been repaid.

"She was struggling in handicaps and we thought we'd give her one go in a maiden, it was last chance saloon.

"I always thought she wanted better ground but I'd say the ease actually helped her there.

"Dylan gave her a super ride. He dropped in, hacked away and took his time. That's his second win in ten days for us (also won on The King Of Brega at Limerick) and he's great value for his seven pound claim."

A nasty incident occurred during this race with Up Monaghan slipping up as they raced past. stands, He brought down Sir Raston Bellas Rock and Miracle Way in the process.

Additional reporting by Gary Carson